Re-entering the workforce- employment fundamentals

Re-entering the workforce after taking a break is a big challenge. One of the biggest obstacles to your job hunt is explaining any gaps in employment on your resume. It’s important to be strategic and honest when rethinking the resume gap.

Perhaps you took a career break, were unwell, been a stay at home parent or are returning from a lengthy sabbatical – whatever be the reason for that job gap on your CV, it can feel like an intimidating and complex matter. Don’t panic!

There is no need to view this as anything negative against your job search but rather an opportunity to make any experience look like an achievement on your resume.

This blog post explains how best to utilize the ‘resume gap’ by reorganizing it into something more positive that hiring managers will notice and appreciate.

Job Search- How to go about Re-entering the workforce

1. Reflect and re-evaluate

Take some time to assess the skills you gained during your break, even if it was an extended period of unemployment or maternity leave. Think about any transferable skills such as organizing events, managing a budget, or anything that could be relevant to your career goals.

2. Upskill

After an extended absence it is important to read the job description carefully and make sure you have the skills to apply for your dream job.

This may mean investing in yourself and refreshing your professional skills for your resume. There are plenty of courses online resources to help you bridge the long break in employment.

Make sure your resume is up-to-date with any new skills that you have developed, or experiences during the gap period.

3. Networking

Reach out to contacts in your field and start building relationships. Try attending job fairs, alumni events, and industry networking events. This is an excellent way to stay informed on the industry, build relationships, and possibly find potential employers.

4. Find a Mentor

Having someone who’s been in the same situation can provide invaluable advice on how to re-enter the workforce. They may also be able to offer insight into their own experiences when they returned after taking a break from work.

5. Stay Positive

It may take some time to adjust to the job search process and re-adjust to the workplace environment.

6. Brush up on job application skills

Interview skills, job search techniques, cover letter writing and updating your CV or Resume are all important skills that you need to stay up-to-date on after a career gap.

A career coach or mentor can help you prepare for interviews, stay updated on industry trends and provide advice during your job search.

Re-entering the workforce after a break is never easy but with the right attitude and preparation, you can make it a successful journey. With some careful planning, reflection and organization you’ll be able to make any gap in your resume a positive asset.

What us the state of the job market?

The state of the job market is constantly fluctuating, but in general it remains competitive. Job seekers must be prepared to stand out in order to succeed in their search.

With the rise of technology and automation, more jobs are becoming available that require specific skillsets or experience. Additionally, the Covid-19 pandemic has caused significant disruption to the job market and some sectors have been hit harder than others.

However, there are still a number of jobs available for those who may be re-entering the workforce. It is important to research the current job market trends in order to find the best opportunities for your skillset and experience.

Understand the importance of explaining a gap in your resume- Why it is important to be honest about any gaps in your work history

As job seekers, we have all experienced gaps in our employment history. Maybe it was due to health reasons, a family emergency, or simply taking some time off to travel. Whatever the reason may be, it is crucial to explain these gaps honestly and thoughtfully during a job interview.

Employers want to see that you are trustworthy, reliable, and accountable. Being upfront about your gaps shows that you value transparency and communicates that you have taken the time to reflect on your career path.

Additionally, explaining your gaps can highlight your transferable skills, such as volunteer work or side projects that you pursued during your time off. Ultimately, being truthful about any gaps you may have in your resume can show a potential employer that you are the right candidate for the job.

Embrace the positive aspects- How to spin this experience into something positive about yourself

Life is full of twists and turns, and we often find ourselves in situations that are not what we expected. However, instead of dwelling on the negative aspects, it is essential to embrace the positive aspects of the experience.

Perhaps this experience taught you something new about yourself – your strengths or weaknesses. Or maybe it pushed you out of your comfort zone and helped you grow as a person.

Whatever it may be, try to spin this experience into something positive about yourself, and use it as a stepping stone for future success. After all, the ups and downs of life are what shape us into the unique individuals that we are.

Show how you grew through the experience- Demonstrate what you learned and how you grew as a person during this time

Reflecting on my experience, I realize how much I’ve grown and learned over the past few years. I recall being very uncertain and anxious, unsure about my path in life.

However, through various challenges and obstacles, I have become more confident and decisive. I now recognize the importance of taking risks and trying new things, and how failure can often lead to growth and progress.

Additionally, I’ve learned the significance of self-care and prioritizing mental health, recognizing the impact it has on all aspects of life. Overall, this experience has taught me valuable lessons and shaped me into a more resilient and well-rounded individual.

Take ownership of the journey- Be proud of your accomplishments and illustrate them on your CV

Taking ownership of your journey is essential in showcasing your accomplishments on your CV. It’s important to take pride and ownership in what you’ve achieved and how you’ve achieved it.

Whether it’s completing a difficult project, learning a new skill, or achieving a personal goal, every accomplishment is a testament to your abilities and dedication. Your CV should serve as a reflection of your hard work and determination, and including specific examples of your successes can make a significant impact.

By highlighting your achievements, you’re not only demonstrating your skills to potential employers but also acknowledging your own progress and growth. So, take ownership of your journey and showcase your accomplishments with pride.

Highlight transferable skills – Outline any new skills or knowledge that can be transferred over to help you in future roles

As you progress in your career, it’s important to identify and highlight the transferable skills you’ve gained along the way. These skills are ones that can be applied across different roles and industries, making you a well-rounded and versatile candidate.

For instance, if you’ve honed your project management skills in one job, you can transfer that knowledge to any project-based role in the future. Similarly, if you’ve gained expertise in a particular software program, you can leverage that skill in a different company or department.

By taking stock of your transferable skills and showcasing them in your resume and interviews, you can increase your chances of landing your desired job.

Make sure the gap period is reasonable – Keep your gap period reasonable and explain why it was necessary for yourself or that particular situation

When taking time off from school or work, it’s important to make sure that the length of the gap period is reasonable. While a break can be beneficial for mental health and personal growth, too long of a gap can lead to missed opportunities and difficulty getting back into the swing of things.

It’s important to evaluate the reasons for the gap and make sure that it aligns with your goals and values. Whether it’s for travel, family obligations, or personal development, be sure to explain why the gap period was necessary for yourself or the specific situation.

By doing so, you can ensure that you are making the most of your time off while also setting yourself up for success upon your return.

FAQs

How do you describe a gap year on a CV?

Describing a gap year on a CV, it’s important to highlight the noteworthy experiences and accomplishments gained during this period. This can include volunteer work, international travel, language learning, or other personal pursuits that demonstrate the skills and knowledge acquired during this time. You should explain why the gap year was necessary for yourself or the particular situation.

What is the best way to address a gap in employment?

The best way to address a gap in employment is by being honest and transparent about the reason for leaving. Instead of trying to hide or omit any information, explain why you took time off and what you did during this period.

This can include any volunteer work, continuing education, or other activities that demonstrate the skills and knowledge you have gained during this period. It’s important to highlight any transferable skills or accomplishments so potential employers can see how these could benefit them in a future role.

Should you be honest about an employment gap?

Yes, it is important to be honest about any employment gaps on your CV. Even if the gap period was lengthy, do not try to hide or omit this information. Instead, explain why you took time off and what you did during this period. This can include volunteer work, continuing education, or any other activities that demonstrate the skills and knowledge you have gained. By doing this, employers can better understand your motivations and how the gap period has contributed to your growth and development as a professional.

An example of a cover letter for re-entering the workforce

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to apply for the position of {position title} with your company. I have been out of the workforce for some time now and am eager to re-enter and make a positive contribution in this new role.

During my gap period, I have dedicated myself to honing my skills, gaining new knowledge, and developing my professional strengths.

In particular, I have {list accomplishments}. This has allowed me to develop a range of transferable skills that will be invaluable in this role, such as {list skills}.

I am highly organized, motivated, and eager to make an impact in your organization. I am confident that my qualifications and experience make me the ideal candidate for this position.

I look forward to the opportunity to meet with you in person and discuss how I can be an asset to your team.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,{Your Name}

How do you explain a gap in education on your CV?

When explaining a gap in education on a CV, iIt’s best to be honest about why you took time off and what you did during this period. You should also provide details of any transferable skills or progress made throughout the break, for example, if you attended a course or gained any professional qualifications during the gap year.

Highlighting your experiences and successes shows potential employers that although it’s important to be honest and transparent about the reasons for taking time off. Explain what you did during this period, such as furthering your studies with online courses or gaining new skills through volunteer work.

You should also highlight any transferable skills or knowledge gained that could be applied to future roles.

How do you write a gap in work history on a resume?

When writing a gap in work history on a resume, it’s important to be honest about the reasons for taking time off. Explain why you took the break and what you did during this period such as furthering your studies with online courses or gaining new skills through volunteer work. Highlight any transferable skills or knowledge gained that could be applied to future roles.

Be sure to include any accomplishments, awards, certifications or other professional achievements you may have gained during the gap period. This will show potential employers that you are making the most of your time off and continue to grow in areas relevant to their business.

Rethinking the resume gap can be a great way to show potential employers that you are still actively engaged in your professional development, despite taking a break from the workforce. By highlighting your experiences and successes during this period, you can demonstrate how your new knowledge and skills could be beneficial for their company.

It’s important to be honest about the reasons for taking time off and provide details of any transferable skills or progress made throughout the break. In doing so, you can show potential employers that you are making the most of your time off while also setting yourself up for success upon your return.

This is key in helping to address any gaps in employment and ensure future employers have a fuller understanding of your capabilities and qualifications.

Is it OK to have employment gaps in resume?

Yes, it is OK to have employment gaps in a resume as long as they are explained honestly and accurately. It’s important to highlight any transferable skills or accomplishments you may have gained during the gap period so potential employers can see the value that you can bring to their company.

It’s also essential to provide details of any activities undertaken during the gap period, such as furthering your studies with online courses or gaining new skills through volunteer work. This will demonstrate to employers that you are actively engaged in your professional development and have continued to grow while taking time off from the workforce.

Explaining employment gaps on a resume can be an effective way to prove to potential employers that you have valuable skills and qualifications which can benefit their business. By being transparent, concise and honest about your experiences, you can prove to them that you are the perfect candidate for the job.

Overall, it is possible to explain employment gaps on a resume in a way that will show potential employers the value you can bring to their company. It’s important to be honest and provide details of any accomplishments or skills gained during the gap period which could benefit them. By doing this, you can demonstrate that you are actively engaged in your professional development and have set yourself up for success upon your return.

By re-entering the workforce, you can turn any potential employment gaps into a positive and show employers how your experience and knowledge could benefit their business.

How long of a gap in a resume is bad for re-entering the workforce?

The amount of time that is considered ‘bad’ for re-entering the workforce can vary between employers and industries. Generally speaking, a gap in employment of more than two years may raise questions from potential employers, particularly if you have not actively engaged in any professional development or activities during this time.

In order to address any potential concerns, it is important to be honest and provide details of your activities during the break. This could include furthering your studies with online courses or gaining new skills through volunteer work. It’s also worth highlighting any accomplishments, awards, certifications or other professional achievements gained during this time, as this will demonstrate that you are continuing to develop your skills and grow as a professional.

By being transparent, concise and honest about any employment gaps on your resume, you can show potential employers that you are the perfect candidate for the role. Doing so will help to ease any worries they may have about the long gap in your professional experience and highlight how valuable you could be to their organisation.

Overall, it is important to explain any employment gaps on your resume in order to show potential employers that you are actively engaged in your professional development and have the necessary experience and skills for the role. By being honest and providing details of any relevant activities during this time, you can ensure that employers understand your experiences and abilities better – setting yourself up for success upon re-entering the workforce.

By actively engaging in your professional development and providing details of any accomplishments during a gap period, you can demonstrate to potential employers that you are the perfect candidate for the role. This will help you to stand out from other candidates and set yourself up for success upon re-entering the workforce.

What should be included in a resume gap?

When explaining employment gaps on a resume, it is important to be honest and provide details of any relevant activities during the break. This could include furthering your studies with online courses or gaining new skills through volunteer work. Additionally, you should highlight any accomplishments, awards, certifications or other professional achievements gained during this period which could demonstrate to employers that you are continuing to develop your skills and grow as a professional.

Including this information on your resume will give employers an understanding of how you have been actively engaged in your professional development and demonstrate that you are the perfect candidate for their role. It is also important to provide any relevant dates so employers can understand when the employment gap occurred and how long it lasted.

What is the best way to deal with a resume gap?

The best way to deal with a resume gap is to be honest and provide details of any relevant activities, accomplishments or professional achievements during the break. By doing so, you can show potential employers that you have actively engaged in your professional development and have the necessary experience and skills for their role.

It is also important to explain any gaps clearly, concisely and in a way that demonstrates your value to the employer. If you had difficulties during this period, such as due to illness or a family situation, it is best to address these issues openly while also highlighting any professional achievements or activities which occurred during this time.

By being honest and providing details of any relevant experiences during the gap period, you can show potential employers that you are still an active and valuable professional. This will help to set yourself up for success upon re-entering the workforce.

Is it OK to have gaps in your resume?

Having gaps in a resume is not necessarily a problem and can be explained to potential employers. It is important to be honest and provide details of any relevant experiences during the break, such as furthering your studies or gaining new skills through volunteer work. Additionally, you should highlight any accomplishments, awards, certifications or other professional achievements gained during this time which could demonstrate to employers that you are continuing to develop your skills and grow as a professional.

By actively engaging in your professional development and providing details of any experiences gained during the gap period, you can show potential employers that you are still an active and valuable professional – setting yourself up for success upon re-entering the workforce.

How do you explain a long gap in work history?

When explaining a long gap in work history, it is important to provide details of any relevant experiences gained during this break. This could include furthering your studies, gaining new skills through volunteer work or attending networking events.

Additionally, you should highlight any accomplishments, awards, certifications or other professional achievements gained during this period which could demonstrate to employers that

What should you do if you have a gap in your work history?

While explaining a gap in your resume can be daunting and feel embarrassing, understanding its importance and taking ownership of the journey you have taken can help to make it into a positive.

In Summary

By embracing the positive aspects of your gap in employment and outlining what transferable skills you have gained, you can show employers that despite any obstacles they may appreciate the personal growth which has been made.

Showing what lessons have been learned, as well as how this break could benefit you at their company, is also useful in making arguments for yourself. Finally, ensuring that the gap period is reasonable is helpful so employers don’t doubt the reliability or experience of an applicant due to a long-term absence.

Explaining your gap on a CV will be daunting but taking these points into account when doing so could go a long way towards explaining why such gaps are sometimes necessary and worth looking into.

So, stay positive and focus on your goals. In conclusion, don’t be afraid of explaining any gaps in employment on your resume when going through the process of returning to work. Utilize this opportunity to highlight your achievements and transferable skills, and build relationships through networking to find potential employers.

You may even find that you’ve come back to the job market stronger, more determined!