Filling the blanks: employment gap - Article by Nicole Mukada

14/07/21

It is without a doubt that the Covid-19 Pandemic disrupted millions’ career plans. You are not alone! This disruption of losing a job has left many people’s CVs with major career gaps and uncertainty on how to fill those gaps without telling a little white lie. – Here are several ways to address the employment gap on your CV in a professional, truthful, and effective way.

RULE NUMBER 1. ‘Remain focused. Don’t be so hard on yourself.

Speaking from someone who has been there, losing a job is the most disheartening and challenging experience. This pandemic has left many people feeling discouraged and incompetent in seeking a new job. It is so easy to allow our brains to be consumed with negativity – but remember it is important to remain calm and grounded. Reflect on this employment gap as an opportunity to develop new skills, including e-learning courses, learning to code, or creating a new routine. Challenge yourself to try something new each day. Set a daily or weekly application goal to stay on top of relevant opportunities and reward yourself in small, meaningful ways when you’ve met your goal.

RULE NUMBER 2. Be Honest – We understand more than you think.

We understand more than ever that this pandemic has been undeniably painful. Be upfront and honest about your employment gap due to dismissals. There is no harm in including a brief bit of blurb on your CV or a cover letter explaining your situation. By doing this, it may also prevent the hiring manager from dismissing your CV due to an employment gap.

RULE NUMBER 3. Change the Narrative. Use what you learned as an advantage, not a downfall.

There is a notion that job seekers who have recently lost their jobs should focus on what they have done for their personal development since then – take a step back and think about what you are in response to the pandemic. What were your challenges during the pandemic? How did you overcome them? Show how adaptable you have been. Show how you maintained level-headedness under pressure. If you can take a step back analysis of your experience and tailor them to roles you are applying for, you can successfully ACE any interview. Recruiters seek candidates who can reflect on themselves, be adaptable and resilient – use this Pandemic to your advantage!