Tips from the Career Coach
09/15/2005

GAPS IN EMPLOYMENT HISTORY

Q: I have 2 gaps in my employment history. One occurred when I went back to school, and the other when we had our last child. How will recruiters perceive these gaps?

A: Gaps in work history are more common than you think. Minor gaps don’t need any explanation; simply refer to the year without including the month. If the break is longer, simply state the reason on your resume. i.e. Executive MBA, University of Toronto, 1998-2000; or Parental Leave, etc.

Q: I was terminated from my last employer due to an interpersonal conflict with my Boss. What will I tell Recruiters and potential employers?

A: Interpersonal conflict happens from time to time and doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll have the same problem again. If performance was the issue, you need to be prepared to explain why that wouldn’t be the case in the new job.

Your resume should reflect what you did well in previous situations. Focus on accomplishments and deal with problems in the interview and ensure you are well rehearsed if asked.

MULTIPLE JOB CHANGES

Q: I’ve had 4 jobs in 6 years and even though I made those changes to learn more skills, I’m concerned recruiters may see me as a “job hopper”.

A: Career development and change should be strategic. You need to demonstrate that the changes were proactively made to deliver timely, specific results to facilitate career development. Ensure your job/project title shows progression of skills, responsibility, and achievements. Unless your job history is specifically project oriented, you should strive to remain with an employer a minimum of 1-2 years. When you leave the company, be professional and note “skills and career development” as your reason for leaving, not the company itself.

CHANGING CAREER DIRECTION

Q: I’ve been a teacher in the secondary school system for the past 15 years, and I’d like to make a career change. The last 5 years I’ve taught Business & Entrepreneurship and would like to enter the private business sector. Where do I begin!?

A: It’s a challenge to make a radical career change after a long time in a “vertical” career where there doesn’t seem to be any “related” experience. Your experience teaching “Business” gives you an ideal bridge to the business sector. You should highlight the skills and knowledge you’ve gained teaching those courses, as these are valuable “transferable skills”.

Career changers that don’t have a specific “bridge” should take an inventory of current skills that are transferable into the new career. You would enhance your success if you were able to show knowledge and skills development in the new career sector through courses, associations, networking, etc.

OVER QUALIFIED

Q: I’m a savvy Vice-President of Marketing who has done a lot of traveling that has taken me away from my family. I’ve made a lifestyle/career decision to seek a less senior, less demanding position that doesn’t require travel. Unfortunately, that makes me “over qualified” in the eyes of Recruiters/Employers. How do I overcome this perception?

A: It’s important to share your reasons with the Recruiter so they can understand your career change motivation in context. Lifestyle issues are very valid reasons to change. The sell to the prospective employer is “more bang for the buck”.

WEAK EDUCATION

Q: Although I did not complete my degree, I have taken many courses and programs over the years. What do I do?

A: A combination of substantial work experience and ongoing professional development is a positive combination. It demonstrates a continuous learning attitude and skill accumulation. Mention the college or program to prevent being screened out, and discuss in the interview.

LIMITED WORK EXPERIENCE

Q: I’m 25, so I don’t have a lot of work experience yet. How do I sell myself?

A: Job seekers at the beginning of their career are challenged because most employers are looking for experience. Be sure to highlight your transferable and adaptive skills. A skills resume is the best way to present yourself – emphasize your willingness to work flexible hours, learn quickly, travel. Volunteer work, training, military, or family experience are great ways to demonstrate leadership, responsibility, initiative and emotional intelligence.

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