Be honest about the career gap
When you’re applying for jobs, it’s important to be honest about your career gap. Don’t try to hide it or downplay it—employers will appreciate your honesty and it’ll help you avoid any awkwardness or surprises during the interview process.
2. Convey confidence
When you’re interviewing for jobs, it’s important to convey confidence. This doesn’t mean you should act like you know everything—just that you’re excited to learn and grow in the role.
3. Rethink your resume
If you’ve been out of the workforce for a while, you might need to rethink your resume. Highlight any skills or experience you have that are relevant to the job you’re applying for, and don’t be afraid to include non-traditional experience, like volunteer work or projects you’ve worked on in your personal time.
4. Prepare for your interviews
In addition to researching the company and the specific role you’re interviewing for, it’s also important to spend some time preparing for common interview questions. This will help you feel more confident and avoid any awkward pauses during the interview.
5. Reach out to and rebuild your network
If you’ve been out of the workforce for a while, you might need to reach out to your network and rebuild your professional relationships. Attend industry events, connect with old colleagues, and join professional organizations—this will help you stay up-to-date on industry trends and make it easier to find a job when you’re ready to start your job search.
6. Update your wardrobe
If you haven’t been in the workforce for a while, you might need to update your wardrobe. Invest in a few key pieces that you can wear to interviews and meetings, and make sure your clothes are clean and wrinkle-free.
7. Follow up after your interviews
After your interviews, be sure to follow up with a thank-you note. This will show your interviewer that you’re interested in the role and appreciate the opportunity to interview for it.
How do you write a resume after a career break?
Define an objective- it is important to have a clear understanding of what your goals are and what you are looking to achieve with your career. For example, are you looking to return to the same level of responsibility you had before taking a break? Are you looking to move up in your career?
2. Highlight certifications and awards- if you have any relevant certifications or awards, be sure to include them on your resume. This will show employers that you are still knowledgeable and skilled in your field.
3. Focus on achievements- rather than simply listing your responsibilities, focus on your achievements. What did you accomplish in your previous role? What positive impact did you have on the company? This will give employers a better sense of your value as an employee.
4. Mention career programs- if you took part in any career development programs during your break, mention them on your resume. This will show that you are committed to professional development and keeping up with industry trends.
5. Seek references- when you are ready to job search, reach out to your professional network for references. Having positive references from former colleagues or supervisors can be helpful in landing a new job.
6. Be unapologetic about your gap- while it is important to be honest about your career break on your resume, don’t feel like you need to apologize for it. Simply state the facts and move on. Remember that you are not the only one who has taken a career break, and employers will understand.
What to do when you havent worked for 10 years?
Let employers know that you haven’t let your skills gather dust while you’ve been off the job.
2. List pertinent education and skills for the job, and give examples of how you’ve used them.
3. Better yet, enroll in adult education courses to refresh your skills before you start applying for jobs.
How do you explain a long gap in employment?
The best way to explain such an employment gap is to write down the exact period you were off, titling it as a “planned career break.” Underneath, you can include one or two sentences on why you took it (e.g. took three years off work to care for my growing children, who are now in elementary school).
2. If you have an employment gap on your resume, the best way to explain it is by titling it as a “planned career break.” Include one or two sentences underneath explaining why you took the break (e.g. took three years off work to care for my growing children, who are now in elementary school).
How do I get a job after a long career break?
Assess your situation- take some time for honest self-reflection. Consider your goals and what you’re looking to get out of your career. What do you have to offer an employer?
2. Plan your return-map out a strategy for getting back into the workforce. What are your goals? How will you go about achieving them?
3. Hone your skills- take some time to brush up on your skills or even learn some new ones. Consider taking some courses or attending workshops.
4. Update your CV and cover letter- make sure your CV and cover letter are up-to-date and tailored to the job you’re applying for.
5. Network- reach out to your network of friends, family, and acquaintances. They may be able to help you find a job or provide valuable information.
6. Interview preparation- take some time to prepare for interviews. Research common interview questions and practice your answers.
7. References and certificates- get your references and certificates in order. Make sure you have the contact information for your references and that your certificates are up-to-date.
8. Search by keyword- use keywords to help you find job postings that are relevant to your skills and goals.
9. Consider freelance work- freelancing can be a great way to get your foot in the door and gain experience.
10. Be patient- job searching can be a long and difficult process. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t find a job right away.
I Leon Thompson am a Human Resources Expert. I have worked in the field for over 15 years, and during that time I have gained invaluable experience and knowledge.
I am also a CV expert and Resume Expert, so I know what employers are looking for when they review applications. This gives me an advantage when helping clients to create resumes and CVs that will stand out from the crowd.