I want to share an experience that I believe many moms returning to the workforce can relate to. This isn’t about calling anyone out, but rather a moment of realization.

A realization that might help you navigate your own journey back into work with confidence.

In 2024, I was easing back into work after a much-needed hiatus. The burnout from juggling motherhood, running a business, and managing an online career had taken a toll on me, and I needed to step back.

But as I was regaining my footing and exploring opportunities again, I came across a job posting from someone in a community I was part of.

The application process included submitting an introduction video.

The prompt was simple: What are you doing lately? What is your career and past work experience?

I recorded my video, answering truthfully. (I’ve included a clip of that recorded video below so you can get a look and feel of what I’m talking about.)

I am a mother.

I had years of experience managing a business and a remote career, but in the recent season of my life, I had been focusing on my family.

And that, in itself, had given me a wealth of transferable skills.

Managing a household is no small task. It requires planning, organization, problem-solving, and an immense amount of dedication.

If anything, I believed these were strengths that would be an asset to any employer or client.

But apparently, that wasn’t what they were looking for.

Not only was I rejected, but the response felt dismissive, almost amused. I wasn’t sure if it was the person reviewing applications or the agency manager herself (or her assistant), but the message was clear: being a mother didn’t count as relevant experience in their eyes.

It stung a little, but I wasn’t offended. Instead, I reflected on it.

Perhaps they didn’t understand because they hadn’t experienced parenthood yet. Or maybe they simply had a narrow view of what “valuable experience” meant. Either way, I reminded myself of something important:

Not everyone will see the value in what we do as mothers, and that’s okay.

The Lesson: Find the Right People Who See Your Worth

If you’re a mom trying to re-enter the workforce and you ever come across someone who dismisses your experience, don’t take it personally. They are not your people. The right employer, client, or opportunity will recognize the discipline, adaptability, and commitment that motherhood instills. If someone can’t see that, move on and keep looking for those who do.

Rejection doesn’t mean you’re not qualified. It just means you haven’t found the right fit yet. Keep showing up, keep believing in your worth, and most importantly, never downplay the value of what you bring to the table.

Motherhood is not a gap in your resume; it’s an experience that makes you stronger, wiser, and more capable than ever.