Best way to explain gaps/unemployment to employers

:o)

I really concerned that I may still be unemployed for quite some time, and I really want to ask how others deal with explaining gaps on an application form or at the interview.

I've been busy applying for jobs non-stop like everybody else and unfortunately still have not been successful, is there a better way to present that?

EndlessStruggle

I filled my gap with voluntary work. Probably the best idea if possible. Can pop it on CV etc and may get a reference. Will look more impressive than a gap on the CV.

Shinigami

Do you send the same CV out to employers or do you change it to suit the employers need from you.
I've had problems in the past and only this week have got a job.

I think my luck changed when i spent 20-30 min doctoring (is that a word?!!?)
my CV to make it more personal to them rather than spending 20-30 mins just sending a generic CV out to mass employers.


Edit:- i had some gaps of a few months between some jobs, when asked during the interview i was honest and just said i was claiming JSA.

Good luck with your hunting

falko89

Why is it such a big issue this? I'll put on mine I was made redundant, Its hardly my fault.

LadyMissA

I just put I was made redundant as I was and have proof and it's well know my last company is doing badly and that's not my fault but their own bad business skills. I just say I am actively looking for work.

Bella56

Agree with volunteering especially if you suspect it will take a long time to get a job. It shows commitment to furthering yourself and your prospects in your free time.

t0rt0ise

Everyone suggests volunteering but I have to say that at least where I am in London, it seems as difficult to get into as a paying job. I applied for several volunteer positions and would seem to have all the required experience etc for the positions I was applying for and didn't even get a response. When I eventually did get invited to an introduction day, they then wanted us to do a proper interview and take up references from recent employers and so on. It all took so long that in the meantime I got a proper paying job and dropped the idea.

gibson123

Just be honest, employers are not daft they know what the job situation is like out there. Just be careful what you call it, make it positive, instead of unemployed or on benefits put job-seeking or looking for work.

Shinigama - i agree with the targeted CV, there is no point in putting out a generic one they rarely work, if you want to hit a target you must take very careful aim, if you just aim in the general area you will maybe hit the target one time in a hundred.

WolfSong2000

I'll second the voluntary work...I'm doing it right now, and not only is it adding fantastic skills to my CV, but it's looking as if I will be able to get paid work fairly soon through contacts I'm making (she says hopefully. lol).

t0rt0ise - I know you said you struggled to find voluntary work, but it is a very varied sector. get creative, just like with any other job...if you like the look of a charity/cause try and figure out a way to get your foot in the door, even if it's just a speculative letter/email/chat with someone. Think outside of the box.

I got into my voluntary role by speaking to someone who is volunteering for a cause (rather than for a specific charity/NGO). I read up on the topic and got acquainted with it quickly and by working my backside off I've managed to make a real difference. It's also helped me as I've been attending meetings with MP's, a member of the House of Lords and at the Foreign Office as well as dealing with major media outlets. I did all this myself. No one sat me down and said "this is your role". I carved a role for myself. I found something that needed to be done and figured out a way to do it. I know I'm making it sound easy, and for the record it isn't - far from it - but if you're determined it's doable.

I had lunch with a chap today who was encouraging me to start up my own agency (in a very specific area, abroad). I was flattered, but don't have the experience. His support means a lot however, and he has a lot of clout, so I am hoping that he'll be able to put me in touch with some people who will help me find a more appropriate job. In the meantime I am making connections, networking, learning new skills and enjoying myself. if I was paid, it'd be perfect, but (fingers crossed) that final piece of the puzzle will fall into place soon!

patchi

I have to agree with everyone else - Volunteering. I started volunteering on an ad-hoc basis for a local charity on and off during my University studies and since I have been unemployed, they have been seeing me a lot more! As I have been there for a number of years on and off, the staff know me really well which translates into a detailed, knowledgeable and up-to-date reference, as well as gaining and developing skills and meeting lots of other volunteers, employed and unemployed

It might be hard to get volunteer work, but I applied to many places before I ended up where I am now. Keep plugging away!