6 Simple Ways to Fill Resume Gaps

Summary: Eliminate bad gaps in your resume by following these tips so that your job search and interviews go a lot smoother.

When on the search for a new job, gaps in your work experience never look great. The longer you are unemployed and looking for a job, the harder it will be to get a job. There is no need to be ashamed of the gaps in your resume. Embrace them and make yourself stand out in a good way. Replace resume gaps with things that show you are using time effectively. Here are some ideas for you to pursue:

1. Volunteer work: Being active in your community is a great thing. Employers will like to see you staying involved and helping those around you. Plus, you never know when volunteering may result in job leads or network connections.

2. Temp work: If you find yourself unemployed and in need of a way of making money, temp work is a great way to earn cash. Temping can help you learn new skills and get your foot in the door with the company for a permanent position.

3. Professional organizations: Being an active member of professional organizations in your field is a way of filling time and networking. Try to gain a position in the organization and participate in any activities they offer to grow your network.

4. Classes: Taking continuing education classes or a certificate program is a great way to fill gaps in your resume and broaden your credentials. There may be skills that you are lacking in that will make a big difference in your job search.

5. Freelance: Freelancing or even starting your own company is a great way to spend time while looking for a job. Not many people can survive without finding a way to bring in some money, so showing that you can take initiative and be creative and get business will say a lot to future employers. Plus working with a client can lead to more permanent opportunities.

6. Blogging: Get involved in your field by blogging about it. You can write about popular trends, new advancements, and other goings-on that would be relevant to your industry. Plus, you can improve your web design skills so that it is another skill to add to your resume.

To learn more about improving your resume, read these related articles:

• How to improve your resume: 6 tips
• 10 Tips for Writing a Resume that Gets Employers Interested
• Action Verbs to Enhance Your Résumé

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