Going back to work after time at home with kids is a big shift — and you do not have to do it all in a weekend. Here is a six-week plan that thousands of NZ mums have used to ease back in.
Week 1 — Get clear on what you actually want
Write down your non-negotiables: hours, location, school-run timing, minimum pay. This becomes your filter for every role.
Week 2 — Sort your CV and your story
Use the AI CV Builder to tidy your CV, and decide how you will talk about your career break. A break is not a gap to hide — it is part of your story.
Week 3 — Set up alerts and start browsing
Save searches for the role types and suburbs that fit. Let the matches come to you.
Week 4 — Apply to three roles you actually want
Quality over quantity. Tailor each application — or let Smart Apply draft them for you to approve.
Week 5 — Prep for conversations
Practise the questions you are dreading with Interview Buddy. Confidence comes from rehearsal.
Week 6 — Negotiate and decide
When an offer comes, do not just accept the first number. Use the Salary Negotiator to ask for what fits your life.
You have done harder things than this. One week at a time.