how do you explain unemployment gaps?
so I was a ad sales pro for about 9 years, left and went to work for a tourism company which I got let go after 9 month due to the economy and down turn in the tourism industry. I’ve been unemployed since July 09, I just assumed I would be at another job by now, but as days, weeks, and now months have passed it’s still up in the air, I am starting to look for some volunteer activities and may do some substitute teaching, but in the mean time when i do get an interview how would you suggest I explain this 9 month and counting layoff? In the mean time what I’ve been doing is reading up on social media marketing, I’ve done some traveling, and I have committed to a workout program that has netted me 15lbs off my current weight, though I just don’t think that is a good enough explanation. Help please! thanks!
You explain them honestly. From a recruiters view, what you present here is pretty good. You are looking for work, volunteering, taking it upon yourself to education yourself/learn something new, are committing to healthy personal habits, and if you are staying positive and active you are in good shape.
The one thing you may want to consider doing (if you have not) is having an independent resume or career coach take a look at your "hiring package" They may be able to help you define your presentation so that you are a more attractive candidate. If you have access to a college career center, that would be a great resource.
social media marketing | admin | 
March 17, 2010 5:07 am
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By Pamela S, March 17, 2010 @ 10:12 am
Definitely get into volunteering immediately, it’s the only acceptable thing a company wants to see/hear about regarding employment gaps of that size. Otherwise I think it’s understandable that you have a gap in your employment right now. just explain that you have not been successful finding any openings in your field. Then mention the volunteer work so it looks like you just couldn’t sit still anymore and had to get out there and get to work even if you weren’t being paid to do it. Matter of fact, you could actually tell an interviewer that, it sounds pretty good!
References :
By jobbend, March 17, 2010 @ 10:31 am
You explain them honestly. From a recruiters view, what you present here is pretty good. You are looking for work, volunteering, taking it upon yourself to education yourself/learn something new, are committing to healthy personal habits, and if you are staying positive and active you are in good shape.
The one thing you may want to consider doing (if you have not) is having an independent resume or career coach take a look at your "hiring package" They may be able to help you define your presentation so that you are a more attractive candidate. If you have access to a college career center, that would be a great resource.
References :
I’m in HR.