If you look at the history of employees, you'll see that they
change companies every few years or so. They simply don't work
at the same company for years and years anymore. Many times,
they are often forced to find a new job due to downsizing or a
company layoff. In fact, with so much economic uncertainty,
there is a strong possibility that anyone can be laid off at any
time. Whether the layoff ranges from a couple of months to a
couple of years, you have to be prepared. You have to learn how
to deal with it and how to explain it to future employees. In
this article, we'll tell you exactly how you can deal with this
unfortunate but common issue.
Layoffs and Résumés
First off all, you have to realize that layoffs happen and they
are not something to be ashamed of. If you've been laid off in
the past, you can't hold your head in the sand. You have to use
the experience as a learning opportunity and realize that
everything happens for a reason. In essence, you have to begin
again.
Second, you shouldn't hide the fact that you've been laid off in
your resume. A gap due to a layoff does not take anything away
from your experience and capabilities. Although some people may
look at this negatively, most won't and will rather concentrate
on your stellar work history and unique qualifications. If you
run into a company that does not understand that layoffs happen
and aren't willing to look past this fact, then you likely don't
want to work with this company anyway!
Third, be creative about the layoff and put a positive spin on
it, if possible. For instance, if your past position was
terminated, you don't have to say on your resume "Job
terminated." Instead you can say that you worked for XYZ Company
for X amount of years and leave it at that. You should then fill
in any time gaps with any freelance, consulting, volunteer or
part time work that you completed during your layoff period. If
you don't have any such experience, don't make it up. Simply
leave time gaps and you can explain it later.
Fourth, always highlights the positives in your resume. For
instance, make sure that you strategically mention your
achievements, skills, accomplishments and experience. Talk about
the skills and you gained and any awards that you previously
won. Mention any accolades that were administered by past
supervisors, etc. The key here is to be honest and not
exaggerate. After all, recruiters and prospective employers do
verify facts before offering you a job so it is to your
advantage to be truthful.
Fifth, be open and receptive to discussing the situation during
the interview. Never be embarrassed to discuss what happened.
However, you should always talk about your employer in a
positive way. For instance, say, "Yes, I was laid off due to a
termination but I learned so much during my X years of work
there. I improved my analytical skills tremendously and know
that I'll be a great asset to your firm now. "
Sixth, if you have some reservations about not mentioning the
termination in your resume, you can also briefly address any
gaps in your cover letter. Although you shouldn't take up
valuable space cluttering up your résumé with an explanation,
you can briefly explain the situation and move on. Be careful
not to ramble however. Instead "keep it short smartie" and leave
the impression that you would be willing to talk it over during
the interview.
In conclusion, don't be afraid to explain your situation.
Lay-offs happen to everyone and although they can be life
changing experiencing, they are merely the beginning of
something new. When handling them on yoru resume, be truthful
and positive.
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