Quick take: Your LinkedIn profile is your modern professional handshake — and as a returning mom, it should reflect your dual identity with confidence. Start by updating your headline and summary to highlight your career continuity (not just the baby), use a photo that feels like *you* (not a stock mom), and strategically leverage skills gained during maternity leave. Keep your maternity leave disclosure optional but professional, and use LinkedIn’s features to network intentionally. Remember: you’re not starting over; you’re re-entering with a full toolkit of experience, adaptability, and fresh perspective.How to Update Your LinkedIn Profile as a Returning Mom: A Modern Mom’s Honest Guide --- ### **The 3am LinkedIn Panic** It was 3:17 AM when I realized my LinkedIn profile was a time capsule from 2019. I’d just returned to work after 18 months of parenting, and my headline read: *“Project Manager | Mom of Two | Formerly at [Big Corporation]”*. No skills. No recent experience. Just a photo of me mid-laugh with my baby in my arms—adorable, but not exactly a resume upgrade. I scrolled through my feed, seeing colleagues post about promotions, new roles, and industry shifts. My stomach dropped. *How do I explain the gap? How do I show I’m still relevant? And why does LinkedIn feel so much harder than my first job interview?* If you’ve ever stared at your LinkedIn profile with a mix of dread and determination, you’re not alone. Returning to work after maternity leave is already a juggling act—balancing sleep deprivation, breastfeeding, and remembering how to use the office printer. Adding LinkedIn to the mix can feel like one more thing to manage. But here’s the truth: **your LinkedIn profile isn’t just a formality; it’s your professional storyteller.** And in today’s hybrid world, where remote work and flexible roles are the norm, a well-crafted profile can be the difference between a “let’s chat” and a “let’s not.” This guide is for you—the returning mom who wants to own her career narrative without sacrificing her mom identity. We’ll walk through every section of your profile, from headline to recommendations, so you can present yourself as the dynamic professional you are. And yes, we’ll tackle the elephant in the room: **how to handle the gap without shame or oversharing.** --- ## **How to Update LinkedIn Profile After Maternity Leave: A Step-by-Step Guide** Your LinkedIn profile should feel like an extension of your career journey—not a separate one. The key is to **frame your maternity leave as a strategic pause, not a career detour.** Think of it like a sabbatical in grad school: you’re coming back with new skills, a fresh perspective, and a deeper understanding of what you *really* want. Here’s how to update each section with intention. --- ### **What to Include in LinkedIn Headline as a Mom: Crafting Your Professional Narrative** Your headline is the first thing people see, so make it **clear, confident, and career-focused.** Many returning moms default to something generic like *“Mom | [Old Job Title] | Currently Looking for Opportunities.”* But that doesn’t leverage your full story. **Instead, try this formula:** **[Your Current Role/Goal] | [Your Industry/Expertise] | [Your Unique Value]** **Examples by Industry:** - **Tech:** *“Senior Product Manager | AI & UX | Helping teams build intuitive solutions for modern workplaces”* - **Healthcare:** *“Clinical Nurse Specialist | Telehealth Advocate | Bridging gaps in patient care through digital innovation”* - **Marketing:** *“Content Strategist | Brand Storytelling | Turning data into engaging narratives”* - **Finance:** *“Financial Analyst | Fintech Enthusiast | Simplifying complex financial insights for businesses”* **Pro Tip:** If you’re actively job hunting, include a **clear call-to-action** like *“Open to remote opportunities in [your field]”* or *“Connecting with leaders in [industry].”* This signals to recruiters that you’re proactive. **What to Avoid:** - Overly personal headlines (*“Mom of 3 | Coffee Lover | Trying to Remember How to Use Excel”*) - Vague language (*“Looking for my next big thing”*) - Underselling your experience (*“Former Marketing Director”*) **Representative Story:** One reader, Sarah, a former healthcare consultant, updated her headline to: *“Healthcare Strategy Consultant | Population Health Focus | Helping organizations navigate post-pandemic care models.”* She added a line about her time off: *“Taking a strategic pause to redefine my work-life integration while staying connected to industry trends.”* The result? **She received three job inquiries within a week**—including one from a company she’d admired but never applied to. --- ### **LinkedIn Summary Ideas for Mom Returning to Work: Your Professional Story** Your summary is where you **humanize your career.** It’s not just a resume bullet-point dump; it’s your chance to share your **why**—why you chose this career, what you’ve learned during your break, and how you’re bringing your unique perspective back to the workforce. **Structure Your Summary Like This:** 1. **Hook:** Start with a relatable moment or insight. 2. **Career Highlights:** Briefly summarize your professional journey. 3. **Maternity Leave Reflection:** Share what you gained (e.g., project management skills, empathy, adaptability). 4. **Current Focus:** What you’re seeking or excited about. 5. **Call to Action:** How people can connect with you. **Example Summary:** --- *After 15 years in digital marketing, I took a pause to raise my two kids—because yes, that’s a career move too. What I learned? How to manage competing priorities, negotiate with stakeholders (aka toddlers), and find joy in the messy middle. Now, I’m eager to bring my strategic mindset and fresh perspective back to the industry—this time, with a deeper appreciation for work that actually matters.* *My background includes [specific achievement], and I’m particularly excited about [current interest, e.g., “helping brands connect with Gen Z audiences” or “leading remote teams”]. If you’re working on something innovative in [field], I’d love to hear about it—let’s connect!* *Open to [remote/hybrid roles/freelance projects] in [industry].* --- **Key Tips:** - **Keep it conversational.** Imagine you’re telling this story to a coffee buddy. - **Highlight transferable skills.** Did you organize playdates? That’s event planning. Manage a household budget? That’s financial acumen. - **Optional but strategic:** Mention your maternity leave **only if it adds value.** For example, if you’re returning to a field like healthcare or education, you might note how your experience has given you a unique lens on [specific topic]. But if your industry doesn’t care about the gap, skip it. **What to Link:** - **[How to Cope With a Mom Identity Crisis: A Modern Mom’s Guide](https://bumpbites.health/blogs/mom-identity-crisis-how-to-cope)** for inspiration on reframing your professional identity. --- ### **LinkedIn Profile Photo for Working Mom: Own Your Brand** Your profile photo is the **visual handshake** of your LinkedIn presence. It should feel **professional yet authentic**—like the person you are now, not the person you were pre-baby. **Do’s:** ✅ **Show your face (but not just your face).** A headshot is fine, but consider a **lifestyle shot** that subtly reflects your current life. For example: - A professional headshot with a **neutral background** (think lightbox or outdoor setting). - A **lifestyle photo** where you’re engaged in something relevant to your career (e.g., sipping coffee at a coworking space, holding a laptop in a park). - A **family photo** *only if* it’s professional and doesn’t distract from your professionalism (e.g., a candid shot of you and your partner at a work event). ✅ **Dress for your current role.** If you’re returning to an office job, wear something that aligns with your industry. If you’re in a creative field, lean into your personal style. ✅ **Smile warmly but professionally.** A genuine smile (showing teeth) signals approachability without being overly casual. **Don’ts:** ❌ **Overly casual photos** (e.g., pajama bottoms, no makeup, or a photo from a vacation). ❌ **Photos with kids in the foreground** (unless they’re part of a professional setting, like a family business). ❌ **Stock photos** that don’t reflect your personality. **Representative Story:** A reader, Priya, struggled with her profile photo because she felt like she’d “lost her professional look.” She took a new photo in her garden, dressed in a blazer with a relaxed but polished vibe, holding her coffee mug. The result? **Recruiters commented on how “approachable” she looked**, and she landed an interview for a role she’d been eyeing. **Pro Tip:** If you’re not comfortable in front of the camera, hire a **professional photographer** for a quick session (many offer affordable LinkedIn-specific shoots). Alternatively, use **natural light** and a plain background for a DIY approach. --- ### **LinkedIn Recommendations for Mom After Baby: How to Get Them** Recommendations are **social proof**—they show that others vouch for your skills. But as a returning mom, you might feel hesitant to ask for them. Here’s how to navigate it: **Who to Ask:** - **Former colleagues** (even if you left on good terms). - **Clients or managers** from past roles. - **Professional contacts** who can speak to your skills (e.g., a mentor, a coworker from a previous job). - **Networking connections** who’ve worked with you remotely or on projects. **How to Ask:** Use LinkedIn’s **recommendation feature** or send a **short, specific message**. Example: --- *Hi [Name],* *I’ve been updating my LinkedIn profile and would love to include a recommendation from you. I’m particularly proud of [specific achievement, e.g., “leading the team through a major client transition” or “mentoring junior staff”].* *If you have a few minutes, I’d really appreciate it. Let me know if you’d like me to send you a draft!* *Thanks so much,* *[Your Name]* --- **What to Include in the Recommendation:** - **Specific examples** of your work (e.g., “Sarah’s ability to manage tight deadlines is unmatched—she once pulled off a launch with a 48-hour turnaround”). - **Soft skills** like adaptability, communication, or problem-solving (great for moms!). - **A personal touch** (e.g., “I’ve always admired how she balances her professional and personal life while still delivering exceptional results”). **What to Avoid:** - Generic praise (*“Great at her job!”*). - Overly personal recommendations (unless it’s relevant, like “the best mom I know” in a family business context). **Representative Story:** A reader, Emily, asked her former boss for a recommendation after returning to work. She included this line: *“My time off taught me how to prioritize and communicate under pressure—skills I’m excited to bring back to my role.”* The result? **Her boss wrote a glowing recommendation** that highlighted both her technical skills and her ability to manage competing demands—a **huge selling point** for her industry. --- ### **LinkedIn Skills to Highlight After Maternity Leave: Reframe Your Experience** Your maternity leave wasn’t just a break—it was a **masterclass in adaptability, multitasking, and emotional intelligence**. Here’s how to **strategically highlight skills you gained** (or sharpened) during your time off. **Top Transferable Skills for Returning Moms:** | **Skill** | **How You Gained It During Maternity Leave** | **How to Frame It on LinkedIn** | |-------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------| | **Project Management** | Coordinating playdates, doctor appointments, and household tasks. | *“Experienced in managing multiple priorities under tight deadlines.”* | | **Conflict Resolution** | Navigating sibling disputes, partner dynamics, or family conflicts. | *“Skilled in de-escalating tension and fostering collaboration.”* | | **Time Management** | Balancing sleep deprivation, work calls, and parenting. | *“Proven ability to optimize schedules and meet deadlines.”* | | **Financial Planning** | Budgeting for diapers, daycare, and household expenses. | *“Experienced in cost analysis and resource allocation.”* | | **Remote Collaboration**| Working with pediatricians, teachers, and virtual teams. | *“Comfortable leading remote teams and facilitating virtual meetings.”* | | **Empathy & Active Listening** | Parenting requires deep emotional intelligence. | *“Strong interpersonal skills with a focus on inclusive communication.”* | **How to Add Skills:** 1. Go to your LinkedIn profile → **Featured** → **Add to profile**. 2. Select **Skills & Endorsements**. 3. Add **5–10 skills**, mixing **career-relevant** and **transferable** ones. 4. **Endorse others** to increase visibility (e.g., endorse a colleague’s “Project Management” skill if you’ve worked with them). **Pro Tip:** If you’re returning to a **remote or hybrid role**, emphasize skills like **asynchronous communication**, **self-motivation**, and **digital collaboration tools**. --- ### **LinkedIn Networking for New Mom: Building Your Tribe** Networking as a returning mom can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re juggling work, kids, and recovery. But **LinkedIn is your secret weapon** for reconnecting with old contacts and building new relationships **without the small talk.** **How to Network Strategically:** 1. **Reconnect with old colleagues.** - Send a **short, personal message**: *“Hi [Name], it’s [Your Name]! I’m back in the [industry] world and would love to reconnect. How’s [their role/company] going?”* - **Don’t ask for favors immediately**—just reconnect and stay top of mind. 2. **Engage with content.** - Like, comment, and share posts from **industry leaders, recruiters, and peers**. - Example comment: *“Great insights on [topic]! As someone returning to [field], I’ve found [related experience] to be particularly valuable. Would love to hear others’ perspectives.”* 3. **Join LinkedIn groups.** - Look for groups like *“Women in [Your Industry]”* or *“Returning to Work After Maternity Leave.”* - Participate in discussions—**don’t just lurk.** 4. **Leverage the “Open to Work” feature.** - If you’re job hunting, enable this in your settings. It signals to recruiters that you’re open to opportunities **without you having to post it publicly.** 5. **Attend virtual events.** - Many industries host **free webinars or networking sessions** on LinkedIn. Join a few to **rebuild your confidence** and meet new people. **Representative Story:** A reader, Lisa, was feeling isolated after returning to work. She started commenting on posts from her former industry and joined a LinkedIn group for women in tech. Within a month, she **connected with a mentor**, landed a consulting gig, and even joined a **virtual book club** with colleagues from her old company. *“I thought LinkedIn was just for job hunting,”* she said, *“but it’s actually a community.”* --- ### **How to Balance Motherhood and Career on LinkedIn: Your Narrative Matters** One of the biggest fears returning moms have is **being judged for their career choices.** But here’s the truth: **your LinkedIn profile should reflect your *intentions*, not your insecurities.** **What to Include (and What to Leave Out):** | **Topic** | **Include?** | **How to Frame It** | **Avoid If…** | |-------------------------|--------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------| | **Maternity leave** | Optional | *“Strategic pause to focus on family while staying connected to industry trends.”* | You’re in a field where gaps are stigmatized (e.g., some corporate roles). | | **Parenting** | Rarely | Only if relevant (e.g., *“My experience as a mom has sharpened my ability to manage competing priorities.”*) | It overshadows your professional identity. | | **Career gaps** | No | Never list them as a gap—**reframe as “career development” or “personal growth.”** | You’re applying to a role that values linear resumes. | | **Flexible work** | Yes | *“Seeking remote/hybrid opportunities that align with my career goals and family life.”* | You’re in a rigid industry (though even then, it’s worth mentioning). | **How to Handle Tough Questions:** If someone asks about your maternity leave, you can respond with: - *“I took a break to focus on family, but I’ve been staying active in [industry] by [specific action, e.g., reading, attending webinars, volunteering].”* - *“My time off was incredibly valuable for my professional growth—I’ve returned with a renewed perspective on [specific skill].”* **What to Link:** - **[Mom Stress vs. Work Stress: A Modern Mom’s Guide to Balance](https://bumpbites.health/blogs/mom-stress-vs-work-stress)** for insights on managing both worlds. --- ### **LinkedIn for Job Search After Maternity Leave: Optimizing Your Profile** If you’re actively job hunting, your LinkedIn profile should **work for you 24/7.** Here’s how to optimize it: **1. Enable “Open to Work.”** - Go to your LinkedIn settings → **Open to Work** → Select your **target roles, industries, and locations**. - Choose **“Open”** (visible to recruiters) or **“Only recruiters”** (more discreet). **2. Customize Your “Open to Work” Badge.** - Add a **short description** like: *“Seeking [role] in [industry] with a focus on [specific skill]. Open to remote/hybrid opportunities.”* **3. Use Keywords Recruiters Search For.** - Many companies use **Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)** to filter resumes. Include **industry-specific keywords** in your headline, summary, and skills. - Example: If you’re in marketing, include terms like *“SEO,” “content strategy,” “Google Analytics,”* or *“brand storytelling.”* **4. Post Strategically.** - Share **career-related updates** (e.g., *“Excited to dive back into [field]—here’s what I’ve been reading to stay sharp!”*). - Engage with **recruiter posts** and **company updates** in your industry. - Consider a **short “back to work” post** (see example below). **Example Post:** --- *After 18 months of parenting, I’m thrilled to be back in the [industry] world! While I’ve been focusing on family, I’ve also been staying connected by [specific activity, e.g., “following industry leaders on LinkedIn,” “volunteering with a nonprofit,” or “taking a course in [skill]”].* *If you’re hiring for [role], I’d love to connect! Otherwise, let’s chat about [industry topic].* *#ReturningToWork #IndustryName* --- **5. Use LinkedIn’s “Easy Apply” Feature.** - Many job postings have an **“Easy Apply” button** that syncs with your LinkedIn profile. Fill out your info once, and it auto-populates applications. **6. Follow Up with Recruiters.** - If you apply and don’t hear back, send a **polite LinkedIn message**: *“Hi [Name], I applied to [Role] at [Company] and wanted to express my enthusiasm for [specific aspect of the role/company]. I’d love to know if there’s any additional information I can provide to strengthen my application. Thanks so much!”* **Representative Story:** A reader, Priya, updated her LinkedIn with the “Open to Work” badge and included keywords from job descriptions she was targeting. Within two weeks, she **received three direct messages from recruiters**—one of whom offered her a role before she even applied. --- ## **LinkedIn Profile for Mom in [Industry]: Tailoring Your Approach** Your LinkedIn profile should reflect your **industry’s norms and values.** Here’s how to adapt your approach based on your field. ### **LinkedIn Profile for Mom in Tech** - **Headline:** Highlight **technical skills** (e.g., *“Senior Software Engineer | Python | Cloud Solutions | Advocate for inclusive tech spaces”*). - **Summary:** Share **open-source contributions, side projects, or certifications** you completed during your break. - **Skills:** Include **coding languages, DevOps tools, or Agile methodologies**. - **Networking:** Engage with **tech communities** like *“Women in Tech”* or *“Remote Tech Jobs.”* ### **LinkedIn Profile for Mom in Healthcare** - **Headline:** Emphasize **patient care, clinical skills, or telehealth expertise** (e.g., *“Clinical Nurse Specialist | Telehealth Advocate | Improving patient outcomes through digital innovation”*). - **Summary:** Highlight **any volunteer work, continuing education, or research** you did during your break. - **Skills:** Include **EHR systems, patient education, or public health**. - **Networking:** Join groups like *“Nurses Connect”* or *“Physicians for Social Responsibility.”* ### **LinkedIn Profile for Mom in Marketing** - **Headline:** Showcase **content creation, branding, or analytics skills** (e.g., *“Marketing Strategist | Content & Brand Storytelling | Helping brands connect with modern audiences”*). - **Summary:** Share **personal projects, blog posts, or social media growth** you’ve done. - **Skills:** Include **SEO, Google Analytics, or social media management**. - **Networking:** Engage with **marketing groups** or follow **industry influencers**. ### **LinkedIn Profile for Mom in Finance** - **Headline:** Focus on **analytical, financial planning, or risk management skills** (e.g., *“Financial Analyst | Fintech Enthusiast | Turning data into actionable insights”*). - **Summary:** Mention **any budgeting, investing, or financial literacy content** you’ve consumed. - **Skills:** Include **Excel, financial modeling, or regulatory compliance**. - **Networking:** Join groups like *“Women in Finance”* or *“Personal Finance Professionals.”* ### **LinkedIn Profile for Mom in Remote Work** - **Headline:** Highlight **remote collaboration and self-management** (e.g., *“Remote Project Manager | Agile & Scrum | Helping teams thrive in distributed work environments”*). - **Summary:** Share **how you’ve managed remote work during your break** (e.g., *“I’ve mastered the art of asynchronous communication—something I’ve relied on heavily as a remote mom!”*). - **Skills:** Include **Slack, Trello, Asana, or time-zone management**. - **Networking:** Connect with **remote work communities** and follow **remote job boards**. --- ## **Myth vs. Fact: LinkedIn for Returning Moms** Let’s debunk some common misconceptions about LinkedIn for returning moms. ### **Myth: “I Should Hide My Maternity Leave on LinkedIn.”** **Fact:** You don’t have to **erase** your maternity leave, but you don’t have to **center it** either. Instead, **reframe it as a strategic pause**—something that added value to your career. For example: - *“I took a break to focus on family while staying engaged with [industry] trends.”* - *“My time off allowed me to develop [new skill] and gain a deeper appreciation for [aspect of work].”* **When to Skip It:** If your industry **stigmatizes career gaps** (e.g., some corporate roles), it’s fine to **leave it out entirely**. Focus on your **current skills and goals**. --- ### **Myth: “LinkedIn Is Just for Job Hunting.”** **Fact:** LinkedIn is a **career toolkit**—not just for finding jobs. Use it to: - **Stay connected** with your network. - **Learn from industry leaders** (follow hashtags like #Marketing, #Tech, or #Healthcare). - **Showcase your expertise** with posts or articles. - **Find mentors or mentees** (LinkedIn’s mentorship program is great for returning moms!). **Representative Story:** A reader, Emily, used LinkedIn to **find a mentor** who helped her navigate her return to work. *“I thought LinkedIn was just for networking,”* she said, *“but it became my support system too.”* --- ### **Myth: “I Need a Perfect Profile to Get Noticed.”** **Fact:** **Progress > perfection.** Your LinkedIn profile doesn’t have to be flawless to be effective. Start with: 1. A **clear headline**. 2. A **brief summary**. 3. **3–5 skills**. 4. A **profile photo**. Then, **update it over time**. Even small changes—like adding a recommendation or sharing a post—make a difference. --- ### **Myth: “I’ll Be Judged for Being a Mom.”** **Fact:** **Your professional identity is separate from your mom identity—but they’re not mutually exclusive.** Many successful professionals are also parents. The key is to **own both parts of your story** without apology. **Example:** Instead of: *“I’m a mom who used to work in [field]…”* Try: *“I’m a [current role] with a passion for [industry], and I’m also a mom who believes in [value, e.g., ‘work-life integration’ or ‘mentoring the next generation’].”* --- ## **Key Takeaways: Your LinkedIn Checklist** Here’s a quick checklist to **optimize your LinkedIn profile** as a returning mom: ✅ **Headline:** Clear, career-focused, and **keyword-rich**. ✅ **Summary:** **Story-driven**, highlighting your **transferable skills** and **why you’re returning**. ✅ **Profile Photo:** **Professional yet authentic**—shows you, not just your role. ✅ **Skills:** **5–10 skills**, mixing **career-relevant** and **transferable** ones. ✅ **Recommendations:** **2–3 from former colleagues or managers**. ✅ **Networking:** **Reconnect with 5–10 people** and engage with **industry content**. ✅ **Open to Work:** **Enable if job hunting** (but keep it professional). ✅ **Content:** **Share 1–2 posts** per month (career updates, industry insights, or personal growth). ✅ **Privacy:** **Keep maternity leave optional**—only include it if it adds value. --- ## **Frequently Asked Questions** ### **How do I update my LinkedIn profile after having a baby?** Start by **updating your headline and summary** to reflect your **current role or goals** (not just your past job). Add **transferable skills** (like project management or conflict resolution) gained during your break. **Enable Open to Work** if job hunting, and **reconnect with old contacts**. Finally, **share a post** announcing your return—it’s a great way to signal to your network that you’re back and ready to engage. --- ### **What should I put in my LinkedIn headline as a mom?** Your headline should **focus on your career, not just your mom role**. Use this formula: **[Current Role/Goal] | [Industry/Expertise] | [Unique Value]** Example: *“Digital Marketing Strategist | SEO & Content | Helping brands grow through authentic storytelling”* **Avoid:** Generic phrases like *“Mom | Formerly at [Company]”*. --- ### **How can I highlight my experience after maternity leave?** Reframe your maternity leave as a **strategic pause** that **sharpened your skills**. Highlight: - **Transferable skills** (e.g., time management, conflict resolution). - **New certifications or courses** you completed. - **Volunteer work or side projects** (e.g., blogging, freelancing). - **Industry engagement** (e.g., reading, attending webinars). **Example Summary Add-On:** *“While focusing on family, I’ve been staying active in [industry] by [specific action]. I’ve also developed a deeper appreciation for [specific skill], which I’m excited to bring back to my work.”* --- ### **Should I mention maternity leave on LinkedIn?** **Optional—but strategic.** If you mention it, **frame it positively**: - *“I took a break to focus on family while staying connected to [industry] trends.”* - *“My time off allowed me to develop [new skill] and gain a fresh perspective on [aspect of work].”* **Skip it if:** - Your industry **stigmatizes gaps**. - You’re returning to a **similar role** with no major career shift. --- ### **How to showcase new skills gained during maternity leave?** List them under **Skills & Endorsements** and in your **summary**. For example: - **Project Management:** *“Managed household logistics, playdates, and appointments—proving my ability to juggle multiple priorities.”* - **Conflict Resolution:** *“Navigated sibling disputes and family conflicts—sharpening my ability to de-escalate tension.”* - **Financial Planning:** *“Budgeted for diapers, daycare, and household expenses—demonstrating my ability to allocate resources effectively.”* **Pro Tip:** If you took a **course or certification**, add it to your **Featured section** or **Education tab**. --- ### **What are the best LinkedIn profile photos for working moms?** Your photo should feel **professional yet authentic**. Options: 1. **Professional headshot** (lightbox or outdoor setting). 2. **Lifestyle shot** (e.g., you at a coworking space with your laptop). 3. **Family photo** (only if it’s **professional and doesn’t distract**—e.g., a candid shot of you and your partner at a work event). **Avoid:** - Overly casual photos (pajamas, no makeup). - Photos with kids in the foreground. - Stock photos that don’t reflect your personality. --- ### **How to get LinkedIn recommendations as a returning mom?** Ask **specific people** who can speak to your skills. Example message: --- *Hi [Name],* *I’ve been updating my LinkedIn profile and would love to include a recommendation from you. I’m particularly proud of [specific achievement].* *If you have a few minutes, I’d really appreciate it. Let me know if you’d like me to send you a draft!* *Thanks so much,* *[Your Name]* --- **What to Include in the Recommendation:** - **Specific examples** of your work. - **Soft skills** (e.g., adaptability, communication). - **A personal touch** (e.g., *“I’ve always admired how she balances her professional and personal life.”*). --- ## **When to See a Specialist (or Just a Good Therapist)** While LinkedIn is a **powerful career tool**, returning to work after maternity leave can also bring up **emotional challenges**. If you’re feeling: - **Overwhelmed by the idea of networking** (even on LinkedIn). - **Anxious about re-entering the workforce** after a long break. - **Struggling with mom guilt** about prioritizing your career. - **Isolated or disconnected** from your professional community. Consider talking to a **therapist or career coach** who specializes in **returning moms**. They can help you **navigate the emotional side of your transition** and provide **personalized strategies** for balancing work and family. **What to Link:** - **[Mom Guilt as a Working Mom: How to Overcome It for Good](https://bumpbites.health/blogs/mom-guilt-working-mom)** for insights on managing guilt. - **[Overcoming Mom Shame: A Modern Mom’s Guide to Freedom](https://bumpbites.health/blogs/mom-shame-overcoming-it)** for reframing self-doubt. --- ## **References** 1. **LinkedIn Help Center.** *“How to Update Your LinkedIn Profile.”* [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/help) 2. **Harvard Business Review.** *“How to Re-Enter the Workforce After a Career Break.”* 2021. 3. **The Muse.** *“How to Network as a Returning Mom.”* 2022. 4. **American Psychological Association.** *“Career Transitions and Mental Health.”* 2020. 5. **FlexJobs.** *“Remote Work for Moms: A Guide to Balancing Career and Family.”* 2023. 6. **The Menopause Society (NAMS).** *“Returning to Work After Maternity Leave: A Guide for Women.”* 2021. 7. **Fast Company.** *“Why LinkedIn Is the Best Networking Tool for Returning Moms.”* 2022. ---
