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Gaps in Your Employment History
Employers will almost always ask about gaps in your employment
history. Since most people need to work for a living, periods
of time when you don't have a job tend to raise a red flag.
You want to minimize any negative aspects of gaps in your
employment. If you have gaps where you did consulting, temporary
work, managed childcare needs, etc, you'll have to explain
these occurrences in the most positive light possible.
Lack of Formal Education
If your formal education is less than what is typically
required for the job you are applying for, you'll want to
minimize that fact during the interview. Focus on stressing
your work experience, life experience, talents, accomplishments,
on-the-job training, or other indicators of your ability
to perform successfully in the job. If you are pursuing
additional education, mention that as well.
Being Fired from a Previous Job
Always
assume that your reasons for leaving former employers will
be explored by the interviewer. Being fired from a previous
job doesn't have to be a major problem for you. Part of
overcoming the negative connotations associated with being
fired is having a positive attitude and openly discussing
the termination with a positive spin on it. Emphasize the
positive and minimize the negative.
Moving Around from Job-to-Job
Employers
tend to get nervous about employees that move from job-to-job
after short-term employments. They know that it costs the
company a lot of money to recruit, hire, and train new employees.
Demonstrate that there were legitimate and logical reasons
for so many job changes. Your goal should be to reduce the
risk they feel that you will have a short-term employment
with them.
Lack of Experience
Sometimes
raw talent is more important than experience. If you are
fairly new to the workforce, stress education, training,
life experience, or other indicators of your ability to
perform successfully in the job. Talk about your enthusiasm
and strong work ethic, including examples of past accomplishments.
Most jobs have something in common that you can relate to
the job you are applying for.
Concern About Your Age
Obviously,
it is difficult to substantially disguise your age during
an interview. If you are very young, avoid overly youthful
clothes. Emulate how people five or ten years older than
you are dressing. If you fear you may be perceived as rather
old for the type of job you are applying for, only list
the most recent 10 - 20 years of job experience in your
resume. Observe the styles of people who are slightly younger.
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Dealing with Background Issues
Recruiters and hiring managers view certain aspects of an applicant's background
as "red flags." Some aspects of a person's background can work against them when
trying to secure an interview. The key to overcoming such concerns is to identify
and address those issues before they become problems.
Above, you'll find a compilation of several kinds of background issues that recruiters
and interviewers are likely to have concerns about. Suggestions are provided to
help you overcome these concerns. Avoiding these pitfalls can improve your chances
of getting noticed and being contacted for an interview. See the Job Hunter Pro
eBook for additional details.