Like millions of workers, your resume may have employment gaps due to the coronavirus pandemic. If so, a hiring manager may be less inclined to consider you for an interview. Knowing how to address these gaps can make a difference in helping you get back to work faster. These 6 methods can help you address resume gaps and land a great job.
Six Methods for Discussing Employment Gaps on Your Resume
Explain How You Spent Your Time Unemployed
Share the ways you invested your time preparing to return to the workforce. Perhaps you earned an industry certification, participated in continuing education, were active in a professional association, or spent time doing volunteer or contract work. Demonstrate that you gained positive experiences that can benefit your career.
Decide Which Jobs to List
If your employment gap occurred early in your career, you might not need to include it on your resume. This is especially true if you have multiple years of experience. Include only your most recent and relevant work history in the employment section of your resume. If this includes your employment gap, you can discuss it in your cover letter and interview.
Include Your Start and End Years
If your employment gap occurred over a few months, and you worked at your jobs for several years, you can leave out the month from each job’s start and end date. Simply include the year each job began and ended. For instance, if you were employed from June 2016 through March 2019 and August 2019 to February 2021, list your employment dates as 2016 to 2019 and 2019 to 2021.
Choose an Appropriate Resume Style
A functional resume places more emphasis on your skills and achievements than your experience. Include sections such as a career summary statement and key accomplishments to focus on your positive experiences. List your employment section near the end of your resume.
Mention the Reason for an Extended Employment Gap
If your employment gap was longer than a year, briefly share what you were doing during this time as if it were a job. For instance, if you were a stay-at-home parent until your child entered school, you could list “Full-time parent, Kansas City, MO, 2009-2012. Took time away from professional career to raise a child and manage the household.”
Share the Experience Gained
Relate the experience you gained during your employment gap to the role you are applying for. Give examples of daily activities and responsibilities you had that relate to the duties or responsibilities of the position.
Find a Great Job
For help finding a great job, get in touch with Davlin Services. Visit our job board today. https://www.davlinservices.com/opportunities/