Many women are under the assumption (fasley) that they have to take a pay cut when they return to work - JUST because they have been out of the workforce.

Not true.

Want to return to work AND get paid?  Then remember this: a job is worth what a job is worth.  And if you can do the job the same as the next person, you shouldn't get paid less just because you haven't been working.

Think of it this way.  What would you pay someone to clean your house?  What if they had a PhD in biochemistry?  Would you pay them 4x as much?  I should hope not. 

Yes, Companies develop a salary range for each job.  The range is to give leeway for individuals with different salary requirements, and provide managers with negotiating room.

That is why you need to do your research and make sure you are targeting roles that complement your skills and experiences.  Sure, if you target a job that you have ZERO skills or background for, you will have to take a cut.  But that is true whether you stopped working or not.

Women negotiate against themselves.  They ASSUME they should earn less because they need to get up to speed.  Or they pursue jobs where their talents are underutilized.  Do you know how long it takes to get up to speed?  NOT THAT LONG.  Then you are bored.  Don't knock yourself out before you even get into the ring.

PLEASE do not listen to someone who tells you that a pay cut is NECESSARY.  PLEASE DO NOT UNDERCUT OR UNDERMINE YOUR EARNING POTENTIAL.  Be confident in yourself.  The confidence will sell you, your qualifications and salary requirements.

So before interviewing, create a blockbuster resume.  Just because you have a gap doesn't mean your resume isn't a blockbuster.  Develop a target company list that espouses a culture you desire.  And practice interviewing.  Make sure you know how to sell yourself.