Use a functional or hybrid format
The first step to address employment gaps or irrelevant work history on a resume is to choose a format that suits your situation. A functional resume focuses on your skills and achievements rather than your chronological work history. It allows you to group your skills into relevant categories and provide examples of how you used them in different contexts. A hybrid resume combines the functional and chronological formats, giving you more flexibility to emphasize your skills and show your progression. It also helps you avoid the suspicion that a purely functional resume might raise.
Fill the gaps with relevant activities
The next step to address employment gaps or irrelevant work history on a resume is to fill the gaps with relevant activities that demonstrate your interest and commitment to your new career. These could include volunteer work, freelance projects, online courses, certifications, hobbies, or personal initiatives. For example, if you are transitioning to a marketing career, you could mention how you created a blog, managed social media accounts, or completed a digital marketing course. Make sure to quantify your results and show how you added value to the organizations or causes you supported.
Highlight your transferable skills
The third step to address employment gaps or irrelevant work history on a resume is to highlight your transferable skills that are applicable to your new career. Transferable skills are the ones that you can use in different settings and industries, such as communication, problem-solving, teamwork, or leadership. To identify your transferable skills, think about the tasks and responsibilities you had in your previous jobs and how they relate to your new field. For example, if you were a teacher, you could emphasize your skills in presentation, instruction, feedback, and evaluation.
Tailor your resume to the job description
The fourth step to address employment gaps or irrelevant work history on a resume is to tailor your resume to the job description of the position you are applying for. This means that you should use the same keywords and phrases that the employer uses in the job posting, and match your skills and achievements to the requirements and expectations of the role. This will help you pass the applicant tracking system (ATS) and show the hiring manager that you are a relevant and qualified candidate.
Write a compelling summary and cover letter
The fifth step to address employment gaps or irrelevant work history on a resume is to write a compelling summary and cover letter that explain your career change and showcase your motivation and enthusiasm. A summary is a brief introduction that highlights your main skills and value proposition. A cover letter is a more detailed document that tells your story and connects your background and goals to the employer’s needs and vision. Both should be concise, engaging, and tailored to the specific job and company.
Be honest and confident
The final step to address employment gaps or irrelevant work history on a resume is to be honest and confident about your situation and your potential. Don’t lie or exaggerate about your experience or skills, as this could backfire during the background check or the interview. Instead, focus on the positive aspects of your career change, such as your willingness to learn, your adaptability, and your passion. Be prepared to answer questions about your employment gaps or irrelevant work history, and explain how they helped you grow and prepare for your new career.
Source – https://www.linkedin.com/advice/3/how-do-you-address-employment-gaps-irrelevant-work