How do I expain the gaps on my resume? In June 2004, I was laid off from my HR job. I found out a few weeks later that I was pregnant. I didn't work throughout my entire pregnancy and when my daughter was born, I decided to be a stay-at-home mom. I re-joined the workforce in January 2006 but only worked until April 2006 when my husband got promoted and we relocated. Now, I am wanting to work again (I miss it). How do I possibly explain such long gaps in my work history? I would rather not mention to my potential employer that I have a small child-afraid it would hurt my chances.
2007-07-18 02:37:44 · 4 answers · asked by no name 4 in Business & Finance ➔ Careers & Employment ➔ Other - Careers & Employment
Ah yes, i had this problem, unemployed because of health, it was very hard to explain.
As a mother of a small child, you don't want an employer who is going to discriminate against you, you want one who will be understanding.
On your resume, put your education and experience first, in reverse chronological order (latest first) Put alot of emphasis on your work experience, showing you know/can work, regardless of how your life has changed.
At the end of your resume, create an extra section listing hobbies/interest, then just mention Stay at home Mom (from this date to this date), just make it a casual fact.
Just to let you know, it is illegal for an employer to discriminate based on motherhood.
2007-07-18 02:50:05 · answer #1 · answered by lilykdesign 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would stick with honesty. They'll see it as that you are experienced, but have already taken that break from worklife to start a family. Plus with your family, they'll see you as being more dedicated to your job for the long-term. You don't have to go into painful detail, but I would give them a rundown of your history from the start of your career till now. People understand life happens, especially if you're pointing out that the big things have occured and you're not looking to make them again anytime soon.
And honestly, if they decide not to take you for the job just because you have a child and family, did you really wanna work for a company like that anyway?
2007-07-18 09:49:31 · answer #2 · answered by lemurmunk 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Don't you think that having a kid would be something that would come up once your hired? Like if your baby's sick and you need to go home or something? It's best to be honest up front.
2007-07-18 09:45:21 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
Honesty is the best policy....
2007-07-18 09:44:47 · answer #4 · answered by hottotrot1_usa 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋