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

This is how to write a resume when you have been out of work for a few years:

  • Make your resume skills focused.
  • Include any volunteer work you did during your period of unemployment.
  • Emphasize your education by adding more detail to your resume 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 resume.
  • Pair your resume with a professional cover letter that explains your situation.

Having an employment gap on your resume 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 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

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