Jumping back into the workforce after it’s been a while can sometimes be, well, a big leap. If you took time off to raise children or travel the globe, you probably didn’t think too much about updating your LinkedIn profile or staying on top of industry news—and you shouldn’t have had to.
In fact, that’s what online classes and resources are for—to give you the opportunity to reacquaint yourself with the job search without it feeling like a huge, daunting task.
For all the parents and recently revived job seekers, this class list is just for you—to re-boost your confidence in your career, increase your chances of finding your dream job, and help you take on the working world like it’s the easiest thing you’ve ever done.
1. Job Searching Skills for 2018
The workforce is constantly changing, and if you’ve been out of the game it can feel like it’s moving way too fast. This course will help slow things down by refreshing your memory on everything you need to know about job hunting. Big topics include boosting your social media presence and basic networking tips.
Length: 28 lectures/ 1.5 hours
Cost: $150
2. Introduction to Time Management
I know, it sounds silly to take a course on time management (I mean, if you’re a parent, you probably can handle a boatload and then some), but it might be nice to get everything in check by learning how to prioritize and organize your work life alongside your personal life.
Length: 2 modules/ 1-2 hours
Cost: Free
3. How to Find Legitimate Work-at-Home Jobs
If you’re still making the transition from a stay-at-home parent to a full-time employee, you might be looking for a remote position. This class will cover everything from finding a work-from-home job, to building your resume, to interviewing for this particular type of role.
Length: 14 lectures/ 1.5 hours
Cost: $40
4. Gmail Advanced Tips and Tricks
Tackling your inbox after some time off can be scary (all over again)—but not if you learn all the tricks to the trade. This class will walk you through Gmail and how to manage all your emails, quickly switch between accounts, and integrate your account with Drive, Hangouts, and Calendars. (And if your returning to Outlook, check out this similar class.)
Length: 8 sections/ about 1 hour
Cost: Free with trial/ $25 a month
5. Build Your Professional Profile & Resume
This crash course, taught by a career and LinkedIn expert, will update you on how to build your personal brand and stand out on both social media and on your resume.
Length: 33 lectures/ 3 hours
Cost: $200
6. Work it: Your Inspired Guide to Rock Working Motherhood
Calling all awesome, super mothers out there! This four-week course covers everything you need to know about joining the working world after having kids—from negotiating benefits and flexible hours to setting career goals and gaining control over your days.
Length: 4 weeks
Cost: $79
7. Using Twitter
Sure, you’re a Facebook and Instagram expert—but how about that Twitter account you set up several years ago and haven’t touched since? Did you know you can use that social media platform for your job search and career advancement? In this class, you’ll learn about building a reliable network, micro-blogging, spotting trends, and more useful hacks.
Length: 1-2 hours
Cost: Free
8. Google Drive Advanced Tips and Tricks
Become a spreadsheets master with this advanced course. It’ll help you improve your efficiency on Google Docs, Sheets, and Drawings by teaching you some great shortcuts and resources.
Length: 8 sections/ 1 hour
Cost: Free with trial/ $25 a month
9. Small Talk Networking: Learn How to Talk to Anyone
Networking can be a bit awkward to try again if you haven’t done it in a while, but with this course, you’ll be a pro at the small talk. Not only will you develop the confidence to approach and speak with others in your field, you’ll learn strategies to ask for someone’s contact information and encourage productive conversation.
Length: 15 videos/ 1 hour, 41 minutes
Cost: $12 a month
Finally, if you want to have a real-life discussion with someone about your next steps, a career coach might be a great resource for answering any and all questions you might have about getting back to work—and you won’t even have to leave your couch to get that conversation started.
No matter how you plan on re-entering work, just know that you’re already ahead of the game because you’re planning for it.