What to do When You Have an Employment Gap
Explaining a gap in your resume can be a tricky thing to do. Luckily, in 2021, employers are much more open to employing candidates who have taken time off, due to the unfortunate amount of Covid-19 layoffs. But, personal time-off can sometimes be harder to explain. Here are some tips to help you re-enter the job market.
Use the time off to learn new skills:
Employers often fear that hiring someone who has taken an extended period off has a rusty skillset. While a job search can often feel like a full-time job, utilizing a course/certification program on common ERP systems like QuickBooks, NetSuite, or SAP shows that you have been active and are up to date on current practices. You can also take time to improve your skillset. For every position in Accounting and Finance, there are always new skills to learn that could be an asset on the job search. For example, if you are an AP Specialist who has not had experience posting Journal Entries, take this time to learn that skill. If you are a Staff or Senior Accountant become familiar with new FASB regulations like ASC 606. Looking for courses to up your game? Check out our favorite Top 10 LinkedIn Learning Courses.
Update your resume:
If you have been off the market for a while, it is likely that your resume needs updating. Use this time off to make sure your resume is streamlined. To refer to the first tip, be sure to add the skills that you have recently gained. This will give recruiters an insight into how you took your time off to become a better candidate. For tips on how to improve your resume look at your previous blog post on resume tips!
Consider contract work:
Although you may be looking for a full-time role, consider contract or temporary positions, which can be used as great starting points for getting back into the market. “Temp” positions keep your skillset up to date and give help you gain more relevant experience. Instead of viewing these temp positions as a “step down” from your previous full-time role, use them as a good stepping stone to finding the perfect role in the future.
Reach out to recruiters:
Explaining breaks in your career can be tough, especially when applying directly to companies. When you first apply directly, internal recruiters only have your resume to go off of, without a verbal explanation of your experience and the “break” in your resume. By using a recruiter, you will have someone on your team who will vouch for you directly to the hiring manager. They are able to frame your time-off in a positive light. Recruiters are also experts in finding positions for their candidates, guiding them through the process of getting back into the market. Need more convincing? Read why you should use a recruiter for your job search, here.