How to Stand Out When Applying for Remote Jobs (Even With a Career Gap)

If you’re a mom who stepped away from your career to raise children, you’re not alone. But returning to the workforce—especially in the remote space—can feel intimidating. The good news? You have more to offer than you think.

With the right strategy and mindset, it’s absolutely possible to land a flexible, meaningful remote job. This guide will share actionable remote job tips for moms and show how stay-at-home moms can get hired for remote jobs after a break.

Why Remote Work is Ideal for Moms Returning to the Workforce

Remote work offers the flexibility, autonomy, and work-life balance many moms crave. According to Flex Jobs, more than 70% of parents say flexible work is the top priority when re-entering the workforce.

Small businesses in particular value reliability, communication, and experience—qualities many moms naturally bring to the table.

At HireMyMom.com, we specialize in helping moms re-enter the workforce with confidence by connecting them to vetted, flexible opportunities with small businesses that value their skills and time.

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6 Remote Job Tips for Moms with a Career Gap

1. Reframe Your Career Gap as a Strength

Instead of hiding your time away from the workforce, highlight the transferable skills you used during that time:

  • Project management (managing a household)
  • Conflict resolution (parenting wins!)
  • Organization, multitasking, and adaptability

Use your cover letter to confidently explain your story and how your break has made you a stronger professional.

2. Update Your Resume for Remote Readiness

Even if your last job was years ago, you can:

  • Highlight freelance, volunteer, or part-time work
  • Add skills like Zoom, Canva, Google Workspace, or Asana
  • Include a summary that emphasizes your goals and remote-friendly skills

Tip: Consider using a functional or combination resume style to focus on strengths rather than timelines.

3. Start With Flexible Roles

You don’t need to jump back into a full-time job. Many businesses on HireMyMom offer:

  • 5–10 hours/week starter roles
  • Project-based or contract work
  • Flexible part-time schedules

Explore Current Remote Jobs

4. Practice Your Pitch

Prepare a short intro that communicates your experience, availability, and enthusiasm for remote work. Use it in:

  • Cover letters
  • Interviews
  • Your HireMyMom profile summary

Example: “After several years managing a busy household, I’m excited to bring my strong organization, communication, and time management skills to a flexible remote role supporting small businesses.”

5. Highlight Soft Skills Employers Love

Small business owners often care more about trust, consistency, and communication than flashy credentials. Emphasize qualities like:

  • Accountability
  • Resourcefulness
  • Reliability and Dependability

Use real-life examples in your application to demonstrate these qualities.

6. Use a Curated, Scam-Free Platform

The remote job world is full of scams and spammy listings. That’s why moms trust HireMyMom.com, where every employer is vetted and every job is flexible, professional, and real.

“So glad I found y’all! I had been applying to jobs for months, and no one gave me a second look because I had a career gap. When I joined your group and applied to my first job, I got it! I’ve been singing your praises ever since!” — Melissa Collins

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FAQ: Returning to Work After a Break

Do I need to explain my gap in every application?

A short explanation in your cover letter is helpful. Focus on the skills you’ve built and your readiness to return.

What if I don’t have recent work experience?

Include volunteer roles, freelance gigs, or courses you’ve completed to show momentum and learning.

Do remote jobs require specific tools?

Familiarity with basic tools like Zoom, Gmail, Trello, or Slack is helpful. There are many YouTube videos available to give you a working knowledge of many of these tools.

How can I build confidence before applying?

Start small: update your resume, set up your profile on HireMyMom, and apply to 1-2 roles per week.

You’re More Ready Than You Think

A career gap doesn’t define you. Your skills, perspective, and desire to re-enter the workforce matter.

Let HireMyMom help you take the next step.

Create Your Account and Start Applying or Explore Our Resources for Job Seekers including our Career Concierge today.

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Getting Hired, remote employees, remote work, Uncategorized