Advice please!

irishbabe52

Hi all,
I'm trying to find a job after being at home with my kids for the last 5 years and looking for advice. I have applied for a number of jobs and haven't even managed to get to interview stage for any of them and am wondering what I can do to improve my chances.
I did a Bachelor in Business Studies many moons ago which gave me major exemptions for CIMA and I sat and passed the 3 strategic exams in 2009. I went on to do TOPCIMA but found it really difficult as it was years since I'd studied the other subjects.
So going back to try and pass it now would involve a huge amount of study on my own which I'm not sure I'd be able to stick with. So I'm wondering would it be more beneficial to go and sit the ACCA or IATI exams instead? I would find it easier to study with regular exams and I would also be updating my knowledge-I last studied tax in 1999 for example!
I am unemployed so it looks like I could do the IATI for free according to their website and they cover payroll which a lot of employers look for now and I''ve never done it.
So opinions pleasre,what do you think I should do to increase my chances of getting a job?
I have 4/5 years experience in general accounting, month end, bank recs, intercompany etc.
Thanks in advance!

Theflyingegg

I would go with Iati or Acca both sound good. While studying with them you could have a job in industry. Your accounting experience would be advantageous.

But I'm younger and less experienced than you so what do I know, but I gave my opinion anyway.