Re-entering the workforce can be a challenge for many people, no matter their reason for taking a hiatus. There can be a bias against people with a large gap in their employment history. Not to mention, there can be some hesitancy on your end when it comes to applying for a position after a long time away. Here are a few tips to help you re-enter the workforce.
Start Updating Your Skills
If you have spent some time out of the job market, it may be a good idea to polish some of your skills. Most industries are constantly changing, so you will want to be sure you have the most up-to-date information and skills necessary. You can do this by taking online courses, volunteering, taking on internships, and brushing up on your skills. This will help fill in any gaps in your resume.
Focus on Skills, Not Time
When you are sending out your resume to potential employers, get rid of the mention of time. Instead, focus on the skills you have and experience. Create headings in your resume like “Successes in Marketing” and list the accomplishments you’ve made. The potential employer will be focused on your experience rather than the fact that you’ve been out of work for a while.
Be Open to New Experiences
Another key tip when you are ready to re-enter the workforce is being open to new experiences. Even though you may have had experience in a specific industry in the past does not mean you will necessarily land a job in that same industry after your hiatus. Be open to different work and flexible positions. Even if you only land a temp job at first, it will help you begin to close the gap in your employment history.
Start Networking
Get on sites like LinkedIn and Facebook and begin networking with people working the jobs you are most interested in pursuing. You may also consider uploading your polished resume to job sites like Monster and Indeed. Plugging into these resources can help you identify companies and positions that may be open to hiring you.
Don’t Get Distracted By Time Off
During your interview, don’t get caught up in discussing your time off. Instead, focus on highlighting your work ethic and the skills you bring to the table. Many people make the mistake of getting emotional or too detailed about their time off. Be honest about why you were away from the workplace, but don’t let it take over your interview.
Work With a Staffing Agency
Last but not least, working with a staffing firm can help you find a job that matches your skillset more easily. Agencies are already connected with employers in the industry you may be familiar with. By having this connection already in place, they can help decrease hiring bias and display your skills rather than the time you’ve been out of the workforce. They can also help you step outside the box and look at positions that utilize your skills that you may not have considered otherwise.
If you are searching for a job, contact A.C. Coy. Our job placement services can help you find a job that will utilize all of your skills.
