 Racing down Highway 5 at 5:23 PM after Ollie’s soccer practice I glance over to see a middle-aged- man eating sushi WITH CHOPSTICKS, DIPPING EACH ROLL INTO WASABI, while driving his Ford Explorer. The cars behind me laid on their horns but I couldn’t stop watching this man and his mind-blowing multi-tasking skills. This dangerously hungry driver inspired me to think of ways mamas can alter their productive household routines into marketable multi-tasking sessions. Many women I have worked with describe their back-to-work experience as a bit “rusty” and a “huge adjustment.” This totally makes sense. For months or years your focus has shifted from spread sheets to ironing sheets and conversations shift from profits to Paw Patrol. But, Mama, if you incorporate marketable actions within your day-to-day to help you avoid straying too far from the professional world, you’re sure to be more in-touch when you want to return. Here are 4 quick, easy, painless ways to start marketable multi-tasking: 1.News and Dishes They are staring at you! Spoiling avocado stuck to plastic plates and curdled milk drifting to the top the coffee mugs, you might spell out “Wash Me” like on the back of the dusty old van window. It’s a consistent chore so incorporating a brain building addition is an influential modification that will pay off in an interview, conversation with a potential job connection, or dinner conversation with your husband. Listen to the NEWS! Ok-I’m not going to weigh in on my favorite news channels because, honestly, it’s irrelevant. The primary goal is to be more aware and expand your vocabulary. Follow your interests as these will likely coincide with your professional conversations. For example, having a current understanding of a popular erosion study may make you a more stand-out candidate for an administrative position at an environmental firm. Staying aware will make you feel more confident at home and when returning to work. Send the kiddos in the backyard with daddy and crank up the news reports while you soap up! Photo by Scott Umstattd on Unsplash 2.Elevator Speech Carpool Karaoke Grocery store, sports practices, Gymboree, doctor’s office-mamas we drive. I totally support spending your at-the-wheel time jamming out to your choice of strong female artist but PLEASE use this valuable time to talk to yourself about yourself. Driving is a great time to practice your elevator speech or potential interview question responses. When I meet with clients the most common struggle with their job search is answering the “Tell me about yourself” question. If you practice this once a week in the car, you’ll be comfortable sharing it when you are across the table from a hiring manager. Here’s what you need to include:
3.Industry Podcast and Laundry Ohhhhhh I’ve got Podcast Fever. They are popping up everywhere and it’s the perfect activity to pair with folding up your family’s freshly laundered apparel. I know it’s tempting to dive into another murder documentary series, but I recommend checking out an industry specific podcast which aligns with your career goals. Here are a few examples: HR Podcast List Business Podcast List Educators Podcast List Healthcare Podcast List We are all working to find a balance in work and life, adding an informative podcast to your laundry routine is an impactful way to stay marketable and productive. 4.LinkedIn and Nap Time The baby is sleeping….FINALLY. Ok-you have literally 35 things you need to do but I’m going to add another to your ever-present list. It’s a little LinkedIn and Chill time. Staying present on LinkedIn while you are on maternity leave, regardless of your length of leave, is a good way to stay connected to your professional self with minimal effort. I recommend you hop onto LinkedIn and connect with at least two new people a week and like a few articles. This will literally take ten minutes but can keep you relevant and in touch with potential recruiters, co-workers and peers. It’s also a good way to learn about various opportunities available in the “jobs” section. Hope this quick list spruces up your day-to-day to do lists and help you to feel more confident when you hop back into the workforce. Feel free to share others below! Hugs, Emily 
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