* Updated 2022
We all know how daunting an interview can be. Preparing answers to every possible question, preparing homework for the company, learning complex details about the job offered and one visit to the local cafe to make sure their variety of delicacies will be exactly what we need for those early breakfast meetings. .
Most of us are armed and willing to talk about our experience and show exactly how we can add value. But how many of us have prepared to answer this embarrassing question – the one we should not be ashamed of, but which inevitably raises the need to apologize, excuse or justify to a great extent?
Why is there a gap in your employment?
There are so many reasons you may have made a career break. Maybe you chose to be at home with young children, needed a break for health reasons or just wanted a trip around the world at the right time. There is no reason to be ashamed, our reasons are probably very personal but also valid. Whatever the reasons may be, sharing and explaining can sometimes be difficult, but with employers desperate to understand, it is vital that we know how to deal with the question.
The elephant in the room
Honesty is the best policy. Trying to hide it makes it look like you have, in fact, something to hide. This may seem unfair but studies show that in the face of an unexplained career gap in a resume, an employer will question the applicant’s sincerity. Addressing your break from work is a much better way to deal with it than to include information at all. Therefore, define your period of unemployment in the way you would define a job – give it a clear start and end date and label it as Planned career break.
And remember that it is unlikely that you sat and turned your thumbs all the time; Maybe gaining additional skills so address them clearly and talk about your reasons for further education. In addition, there are sure to be piles of transferable skills you have gained from being a mom, caregiver, karaoke expert on a cruise ship – be proud of what you have achieved in this time and take the opportunity to shout about how you can use your skills to add value in the workplace. Employers will respect your sincerity.
No need to apologize
Here at Moms Careers, we often hear from job seekers who are concerned about the gap in their resumes. There is a fear that employers will offer judgment rather than understanding, which will lead some of us to take an apologetic stance.
Taking a break to have children or recover from an illness does not require an apology. But circumstances change over time so it may help to explain that your children are currently in full-time education, or that you are fighting fit and ready for action. Employers will be grateful for the promise, and you demonstrate a determination to fully commit to the job.
Focus on the positive points
Some gaps may need a little more explanation, but it is important to continue to be honest. Build your resume to provide examples that support a specific set of skills, with academic skills and a concise and declining employment history. By focusing on skills and accomplishments, rather than past jobs, you can talk in detail about your strengths, making gaps in the history of your career seem less noticeable.
You are the real one
Above all, the purpose of your resume is to show your strengths. Knowing that you are likely to be asked about a career break gives you the insight to prepare for the inevitable. Investing time and some love in your resume will yield dividends in the long run. The gaps in your employment are part of your journey, be positive and treat them calmly while providing clarity.
The explanation you offer to your potential employer can be another opportunity to highlight your strengths. The ability to integrate directly into the team and get the job done successfully does not only depend on skills – it uses life skills, personality, impulse, determination, resilience and so many other positive qualities that we do not just learn in education. Remember how much you have to offer and help the employer see yourself for real.
And remember…
We are here to support you! The Career-Mums team has been helping working parents in their careers for over 5 years. If you want more personal support to help you get your next job, order it Spotlight on your career training program.
For more help and support on the subject of juggling life as a busy parent, check out ours Working parent training program.
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