A letter from our founder
Hi friends,
Welcome – I’m so glad you’re here!
I understand the challenges of returning to work after a career break, because I’ve been there!
After being out of the full-time workforce for 13 years so I could spend my time with our four young children, I started a full-time position in 2015. And I love it!
I have to admit the whole time I was job-searching, I had mixed feelings. I wondered if this was really the right time. Would my co-workers value my professional skills? Would an employer understand that I plan to give 110% at the office, but that my family will always be my first priority? Would our children survive if I wasn’t around all the time? Would we ever eat a home-cooked meal again?
Here’s the answer to all those questions – a resounding YES!
Just after launching Back to Business, I interviewed for a position in the MBA Career Services offices at the University of North Carolina’s Kenan-Flagler Business School.
During my interview for the position, I was asked about my ability to multi-task and juggle multiple responsibilities. I gave my business answer, but couldn’t resist adding “…and I do have four children, so multi-tasking is pretty second-nature to me.” My interviewer laughed and said “Well, maybe you can teach us how it’s done then!” I knew then that I’d be valued not just for what I can do, but also for who I am. I am a working mom!
I started Back to Business to help women restart their careers and to help companies benefit from the amazing talent pool represented by women who are relaunching their careers. I believe that with the right skill updates, appropriate focus and an enthusiastic community of support, every woman can return to a fulfilling career.
Connecting highly qualified people to great career opportunities is my passion! As Senior Associate Director of Career Coaching for the UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA Program, I coached students and managed a team of career coaches as we shaped the next generation of business leaders. I’ve since added recruiting and operations experience to my skill set and draw on these skills each day as I help people like you return to their careers.
Today I am the Director of Career Development at Momentum Learning, a code school based in Durham, NC. I get to continue the work of coaching job-seekers to find great jobs and building relationships with companies that are hiring technical talent. I love it!
As the Founder of Back to Business, my mission is to help women re-enter the paid workforce by providing professional job search advice and resources, and by encouraging their connection with employers who are interested in this untapped talent pool. I’m also excited to offer Returnship program development to innovative companies who want a proven way to hire individuals returning from a career break.
You’ll find a wealth of information on the Back to Business website including articles and free tip sheets, digital courses and workshops, and the latest on our Conference and MeetUps. I’m here to assist and motivate you during your journey. Please email me if you have questions I can help with.
You got this – good luck!
