Many people during these tough economic times are facing long stretches of unemployment. These gaps in employment look like eyesores on resumes. Employers are more forgiving towards gaps in employment during this recession and reasons such as going to school, taking care of children, or taking care of one’s own personal health are justifiable reasons to have gaps in employment.
If you’re simply unemployed at the time and find yourself struggling to find a job, don’t sit on your hands and wait for an employer to call or email you back. Responses can take a while and during the wait you can be proactive by doing something that can be helpful to your resume and yourself. Doing one these activities can also increase your chances of finding a new job by making new connections with professionals.
Here are ways to fill in the gaps:
- Freelance work – This will allow you to continue using your skills in your field and add more experience onto your resume. It’ll also keep you earning money.
- Volunteer- Reaching to out to your local community will teach you skills and build character. Helping out the community in something you’re good at shows your commitment to your work and dedication to your community. Your experience volunteering will make you a better candidate for any job.
- Temp Work- Working for a temp agency will have you earning money without the long commitment. They’re available in almost every field and provide flexible work hours. The flexibility allows you to do various temp work, so there’s never a dull moment.
- Take a Class- Now is the perfect time to learn a skill you’ve been meaning to learn. Update yourself on the new current practices on your field. Keep up with the advancement of technology by learning about current office software and media. Getting a certifications in CPR or Microsoft are useful certifications.
- Start a Blog- Everyone is blogging these days and so should you. Start a blog based on your expertise and experience in your field. This will put your skills to the forefront and show your initiative to forward your career.
- Leadership Roles – Take a management position in your community by serving on a board or committee. The skills you learn in this role will help your resume by demonstrating you are leader and have worked productively with a team.
- Network – Use your social media contacts to network and look for a new job. Plus, if you do any of the things listed above you’re bound to make new connections with professionals. This will expand your network and thus expand your opportunities for a job.
Another great thing to do, if you haven’t already, is to sign up with Spark Hire and start working on your free profile. Creating a video resume with Spark Hire can help you get the competitive edge you need in your job search.
It’s possible to make good use of your time off work. Filling in these gaps of employment will make you a more desirable candidate. You’ll have fun, learn new skills, hone old skills and make new friends. You’ll go to your next interview confident in the experience you have and be ready to enter the workforce.
SOURCE: Schools
IMAGE: Courtesy of Recruiter’s Blog
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