It might seem daunting to highlight any periods of unemployment on your CV but don’t be afraid as it is completely normal and there are many valid reasons as to why these have occurred.
All you need to do is clarify the reason for the period of unemployment in a professional and unbiased manner to give the hiring manager a full picture of your employment history.
You should always try to focus on the positives in this situation. Being out of employment may have given you the opportunity to develop new skills or take part in volunteering work and you should use any such opportunities to your advantage.
Even if it is not purely career related, be sure to comment on how your time out of employment has helped you to develop as a person. Even time spent working on your physical or mental health will demonstrate a ‘get up and go’ spirit which is a desirable trait to employers.
A hiring manager will be more likely to overlook gaps in your employment if you were able to develop yourself professionally and utilise your time wisely.
If you are tempted to lie on your CV, you should always remember that honesty is the best policy. It is much better to tell the truth than to get caught out later down the line. If this occurs, your integrity as a person will be in question.
Examples of what to include
Joined groups on LinkedIn which specialise in [your industry] to network with like minded people
Taught myself how [xyz] by watching video tutorials on YouTube
Volunteered as a Football Coach at a local school
Completed an online course in [xyz] to which I was awarded [grades]
Completed a 90 day fitness challenge
Who is Spencer Clarke Group?
Formed in 2017, we're a multi-sector recruitment agency, specialising in a range of key disciplines within both the public and private sectors, offering permanent, temporary, contract and fixed term opportunities.
We currently specialise in 8 sectors:
Accountancy & Finance
Construction, Trades & Labour
Corporate Functions
Education & SEND
Health & Social Care
Housing
Interim & Executive
Surveying, Technical & Engineering
Candidates
If you’re searching for a new role, why not check out all our latest vacancies at spencerclarkegroup.co.uk/jobs now or upload your CV by visiting here.
Employers
If you’re struggling to fill a role, why don’t you give us a call on 01772 954200 to see how we can help?
One of our Recruitment Consultants will be happy to listen to the challenges which you are facing and advise on the best possible solution for you.
Alternatively, you can discover more here or submit your vacancy by visiting here.