Bridge the employment gap
LAYOFFS are part and parcel of everybody's work life today. No matter how impressive your career progression is, chances are that you'll find yourself out of work for a significant period of time at some point of time in your career; regardless of your hardworking and responsible bent of mind. The good old adage "you're only as good as your last sale" proves right here.
Employment gap could stagnate your career progression; and could depress you when contrasted against the achievements and accomplishments of your peers. Hiring managers could as well view your experience as being archaic. To worsen the situation, a job search that you were convinced would take just a few weeks would run into months. However, this doesn't go to say that returning to work is discouraging. There are innumerable people who've successfully walked back into their field after a considerable time lapse. The smart dodge is to keep this sabbatical torpedoing your long-term career goals. Let's have a look at some of the effective ways to stay connected to one's career while not employed.
Start with your current employer
Your current employer, assuming you're still working, might value your work and experience. Speak to him to identify potential freelance or consulting or any part- time periodic assignments that you can pursue during the sabbatical. Don't hesitate to call up your previous employer and find out even if you've been off work for an extended period of time. In case you get a no for an answer, you'll obviously have to start looking elsewhere. Go online and search for companies offering any freelance or periodic assignments that match your calibre. Try applying to as many firms as possible so that you could have a choice in case something comes your way.
Maintain your network
Maintain your network of industry contacts and nurture them. Also, hone your existing skills and brush them up. If needed, consider improving your knowledge in any topic related to your profession.
Moreover, volunteering would also prove beneficial. If you can find an organisation that allows you to work without pay, make the most of it. Volunteer for activities that closely match your field and interests.
Focussing on your résumé
Nowhere is an employment gap more glaring than on a résumé. If you can think out of the box, there are ways you can keep these gaps out of the portfolio.
For instance, if you've volunteered for an organisation that's in the field related to your career, include them in the "Work Experience" section. Give it the due credit as you would to the "real" job explaining your job responsibilities, achievements and time period. In case you don't have anything relevant to include, it might be appropriate to go for a functional résumé focussing more on your skills. Nevertheless, studies say most of the employers prefer chronological portfolios to functional ones. A mixed one, having the best of both worlds, would also work if you highlight your impressive accomplishments and chronological work history employers are looking for. This way, you can grab the reader's attention right in the beginning.
Zooming on the cover letter
If you've been through the employment gap, very recently or extensively, you would want to consider addressing it in your cover letter. However, it wouldn't be appropriate to detail your lengthy illness or a long job search in the cover letter itself. Include a brief explanation stating the reason and do display your eagerness to return.
While at the interview
If you are asked to throw more light on your employment gap, do explain the reasons for your out-of-work status. In case you think your experience gained during the employment gap helps you get the job, emphasise the details. If not, ensure you keep it short and sweet.
No matter which side of the line you are, do remember to end it on a positive note - that you're all set and keyed up to work yet again.
ROOPA HEGDE
Roopa.hyd@cnkonline.com
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