How do you write a CV when you haven’t worked in years?

This is how to write a CV (also commonly called a resume) when you have been out of work for a few years:

  • Make your CV skills focused.
  • Include any volunteer work you did during your period of unemployment.
  • Emphasize your education by adding more detail to your CV’s education section.
  • Add any certifications or qualifications you achieved while unemployed.
  • Briefly explain why you haven’t been working in your professional summary at the beginning of your CV.
  • Pair your resume with a professional cover letter that explains your situation.

Having an employment gap on your CV is not as bad as most think and is actually quite common.

Most employers understand there are many valid reasons to take extended time off from working and will not hold it against you if you explain your situation openly and honestly.

For example, raising a child, caring for a relative, or suffering from long-term health issues are both legitimate reasons for taking time off work.

Meg Salter
Co-Founder & Co-CEO
meg@recruitablehub.com
Linkedin: @meg-salter
Kate Bartlett
Co-Founder & Co-CEO
kate@recruitablehub.com
Linkedin: @bartlettkate

Related Questions

It could not be easier to use our products and services (or better value).

It is risk free! We want you to try before you buy, and have a free option you can start with and then upgrade at any time during the process if you choose to.

Cover Letter Pro Package

$ 49.00 AUD

(GST Included)

  • One-off payment of $49
  • Unlimited cover letters and downloads for 30 days
  • Lifetime access to drafts and completed cover letters in your personal dashboard
  • Fill-in-the-blanks to include all relevant information
  • Access pre-written text to copy and edit
  • Utilise the RecruitableHub job tracking dashboard
  • No subscription to cancel and no hidden payments

Resume Pro Package

$ 49.00 AUD

(GST Included)

  • One-off payment of $49
  • Unlimited resume downloads for 30 days
  • Lifetime access to drafts and completed resumes in your personal dashboard
  • ATS friendly original templates
  • Fill-in-the-blanks to include all relevant information
  • Access pre-written text to copy and edit
  • Utilise the RecruitableHub job tracking dashboard
  • No subscription to cancel and no hidden payments