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Resumes For Joining After A Career Break

A break in career could pose problems or difficulties for a career restart. This is especially true for mothers who have taken a break for motherhood. However, a break does not mean that it is totally difficult to get back. Career restarts require meticulous planning that involves drafting a suitable CV or resume. Here are few points that could be helpful:

Do not attempt to hide gaps in the resume: Employers appreciate a well written resume with gaps highlighted paired with a creative attempt to tide over these gaps. Cover letters could be used as excellent props to explain the career break.

Use relevant heads: It may not be a good idea to include a hobby or a leisure activity to fill the career gaps on one's resume. Rather, attempts should be made to use better heading such as "volunteer contributions" or "non-profit activities". The latter look more professional. It may also be worth including any consulting or other work from home activities that one may have carried out during the gap period. 

An updated LinkedIn profile: Potential employers consult LinkedIn profiles before recruitment. Thus, it may be a good idea to stay connected to past colleagues. Recruiters are impressed by a well connected profile. They might be even impressed to read professional recommendations from past colleagues. Finally, include LinkedIn profile links on the resume. The network can also help fetch job opportunities after the end of the break! 

Include a good statement of career objectives: An impressionable resume would have a clear statement of career objectives right at the beginning. For example, "Communications specialist with over 8 years of experience. Looking forward to work with dynamic retail businesses where my experience with in-store communication can make a meaningful difference to sales."

Be more specific: Include specific data, where possible, in order to avoid being vague. Vagueness is reflected in broad 'achievements' and 'strengths' with no specifications. It is a fair idea to use figures either from the past professional or volunteer activities. For example, "Organized funds and worth Rs. 20,000 for ABC NGO, within a deadline of 10 weeks. At the same time, coordinated with other NGOs in the same area to raise awareness about the needs for a clean environment."

Include appropriate referees: Including a former boss as a referee leaves a good impression as it shows one's capability to establish friendly and professional relations.

Add new skills: Adding additional skills that one may have learnt during the gap period is an excellent idea. One can add skills such as budgeting and timekeeping. These skills learn in the context of raising a family could be easily translated to the workplace. 

Take help of resume writers: Sometimes, people would like to hire a resume writer. This can be very helpful considering the fact that one would be entering an evolved marketplace. So tips and advice from a writer could ensure a smooth comeback with a redefined resume.