August 17, 2022 - BCPL Resume Tips

Welcome back, job hunters!

This August's resume tip may seem obvious, but it's a valid one.

Resume Tip #22 - Avoid Gaps

Gaps in your resume are almost unavoidable. Perhaps, you took time off to raise children, take care of an elderly relative, or were completing a volunteer program. You should have an explanation ready for your interview in this case. 

The only way you should include the explanation or clarification on your one-page resume is if it's in a different section from your work history. The gaps in your job history should only be explained in your summary or a volunteer or education section. 

For example, a brief summary at the top of your resume might state "Hard-working and enthusiastic teacher with five years hands-on experience seeking full time hours. I am rejoining the work force after completing my Masters program and raising three children to school age."

Otherwise, you should not create gaps in your work history to reflect certain job duties or locations. If experience at a certain job position suits the job where you are applying best, find a way to work it into your consecutive job history. Don't skip places that you worked based on relevance. It is more important to show consistent job positions.

Keep in mind as well that most employers do not consider work history over 10-15 years relevant. The experience is important to include if you can fit it into your one-page document, but most places will overlook older job positions anyway. The technology and procedures for the oldest job positions in your history have probably changed.

So, in summary, keep your resume concise and consistent to really impress perspective employers. And be weary of any gaps in your work history. These are okay, but you will need to have a ready explanation.

Remember your local library is a great place for job search help!