How to Avoid Resume Gaps

There are many techniques that can be employed to prevent significant gaps in work history. Here are my top four recommendations (all of which look great on a resume and build valuable business connections):

1. Offer to produce something of value for free.

Employers are especially fond of professionals and students who present themselves as problem solvers instead of job seekers. If you are seeking a new position, offer to deliver something specific that you know you can hit the ground running (e.g. set of marketing ideas, research report, financial analysis). Set a short timeline such as two weeks and show them what you can do if employed.

2. Seek temporary or contract work.

Professionals should immediately contact local staffing firms about temporary or contract work if they are unemployed. These recruiters have visibility to short term opportunities that are often never publicized online. Contract work is a great work to get your foot in the door with an organization to see if there is a mutual fit.

3. Volunteer your services in your community.

Volunteering at a community-based organization is a great way to keep your skills up to date and to build connections. For example, if you are a project manager, offer to lead a project at the local arts or recreation center. Community work not only looks great on a resume, it also makes a difference in your town.

4. Pursue additional education and training opportunities

Use a period of unemployment as an opportunity to pursue professional or even personal goals such as taking computer classes or training for a marathon. Educational achievements, both short and long term, demonstrate that you are a motivated and goal oriented professional.

Final advice

There is nothing to be embarrassed about having gaps between regular employment (especially now) unless you take no action. What separates a smart professional from the majority of just "job seekers" is that they see themselves as problem solvers. They seize the opportunity between regular jobs to help others and to help themselves.