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Moms at Work

Is Returning to Work Right for You?

By Mary Dixon Weidler

Many mothers rejoining the workforce may take a "side door," that is, through a temporary agency. Temps are hired by the agency and then placed on appropriate jobs for a set period of time. Working as a temp, Murray spent a month as a receptionist for a car agency, worked part time typing invoices for an accounting firm and worked on a computerized accounting system for a mortgage company, which eventually led to a permanent position.

"I found temping a win-win situation," Murray says. "I didn't waste time interviewing and waiting, because the agency sent me out. I was exposed to numerous different worksites and learned where I liked to work. I was free to turn down a job that I didn't like or if I needed time off. And, since I wasn't really part of the team, I never became involved in office politics – and the employers always noted that my focus remained on my work."

Temping is also a good way to increase your network. Before leaving an assignment, speak to the employer about the type of work you'd like to do and ask him to keep you in mind if an appropriate opening does develop. Leave your resume and ask him to pass it on if something comes up. Then keep in touch. If you did a good job as a temp, the employer may pass on more than just your resume. He'll be your first glowing recommendation – and that's a great step toward landing the job.

Part two of this series will cover the art of interviewing.

Want to see more?

• A Maternity Leave Primer: Why Expectant Moms Need to Plan Ahead
• Staying on Top While You're Waiting to Pop: The Working Woman's Guide to Pregnancy and Maternity Leave
• Join the discussion on our Family.com community!
• Maternity Leave During Hard Times: Layoffs, Your Rights and Tips to Keep Your Job Safe

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