How to Answer "What Have You Been Doing?" After a Career Break (Without Apologizing)

There's one question that tends to make moms reentering the workforce freeze up:

"So… what have you been doing?" Cue the awkward pause. The mental scramble. The instant urge to justify your entire life since leaving your job.

But here's the thing — that question isn't a trap.

It's a chance to tell your story, on your terms. Whether you've been raising babies, supporting your family, volunteering, freelancing, or just surviving, your time away from work wasn't time wasted. You've been growing, learning, and leading in ways that matter. Let's break down how to answer this common interview question after a career pause — with confidence, not guilt.

1. Keep it Short, Clear, and Positive

You don't need a long explanation. Just own it.

Try something like: "I took a break to raise my family, and now I'm excited to return to work with a fresh perspective." This answer is honest, forward-looking, and confident — exactly what hiring managers want to hear from working mothers returning to the workforce.

2. Frame Your Career Break as Intentional

Calling it a planned pause changes the tone. You didn't "just stay home." You made an intentional choice to focus on your family, and that matters. "This was a planned career break to focus on family and personal growth. Now, I'm returning to work with renewed energy and clarity about my goals."

Remember that this wasn't a step back — it was part of your path.

3. Highlight What You Did During the Gap

You did more than you give yourself credit for.

• Managed school events? That's project management.

• Volunteered for a nonprofit? Leadership.

• Did you take a course online? Professional development.

"While raising my kids, I also stayed involved by volunteering, managing community events, and taking online courses in [your field]." Use this part of your answer to show that your skills didn't disappear — they evolved.

4. Practice Your Tone, Not Just Your Words

How you say it matters just as much as what you say. Say it out loud. Smile when you say it. Practice in the mirror or with a friend. Confidence doesn't mean perfection — it means believing your story matters (because it does).

5. Redirect the Conversation Forward

Don't linger in the past. Close strong by focusing on where you're headed. "I'm excited to step into a role that lets me use my experience in [your skills] and continue growing professionally." This turns the conversation back to your strengths and the value you bring, right where it belongs.

You don't need to defend your career break. You need to own it. Whether your time away was two years or ten, it shaped who you are — and made you stronger, more adaptable, and more focused.

When someone asks, "What have you been doing?" Don't shrink. Stand tall. Because the honest answer is: "A lot. And now I'm ready for what's next."