Full Careers
Do I address my employment gap in my cover letter?
I have been out of the work force for two years because of the unpredictability of my husband's military career (unusual circumstances for even military people, I moved 4 times). Our geographic instability coincided with a family crisis, so I used this time to travel to other states to help take care of family members. I have not done anything in those years that directly adds to my resume (such as continuing education, or professional certifications) or volunteer work. I have several years of experience but I am not sure if this employment gap is keeping me from getting an interview. I am unsure if I should address the gap upfront in the cover letter to raise my chances for interviews. Or just wait until the interview to address this (that is, if I even get an interview.) And if I do address the gap in my work history, how do I do it? P.S. Yes, I do have a functional (as opposed to chronological) resume to highlight my experience in specific areas
Public Comments
- Since you are not using a chronological resume, just submit your resume and a cover letter. Don't address the gaps until you are called for an interview. Most companies require you to fill out their employment applications, and that is the place to explain your gaps...or if not asked to fill out an application prior to an interview, just let it go unless the interviewer brings it up..unless you can see that he/she is showing any signs of doubt about your work history. The reasons for the gaps that you stated in your question here are the exact reasons you should give if asked to explain. You'll be fine.... Good Luck
- Please list out the longest gap, and say that you were self employed. It is always advisable to state that you were not employed for the rest of the periods due to family circumstances. Do not forget to add that the family circumstances on account of which you were constrained to be unemployed are now over and that you are available for a full time job !!
- Hey you are a mom - the highest job calling there is. Mom in a military family should rate you even higher than that. No explanation is needed until the interview.
