QUESTIONS OF THE MONTH - DECEMBER

Each month you can “ask an expert” who will share her experiences and opinions.  Is there a question you want answered?  We’re sure you may have a few that others can benefit from as well.  So feel free to ask our experts by emailing us at experts@flexperienceforum.com.

To learn more about the experts, click on their names to see their bios.

Q: How do I account for my break in employment on my resume?  Should I use a format that is not chronological?

Ilene Schaffer On-Ramp Moms Ilene Schaffer’s passion and skills are centered around helping mothers get motivated and organized to create and reach their personal and professional goals. Prior to creating a practice exclusively for mothers in transition, Ilene counseled and advised students and alumni in higher education for 15 years. She holds a BA in Social Sciences from the University of California at Berkeley and an MA in Life Transitions Counseling from the University of San Francisco. Ilene has a private practice that specializes in mothers who are ready to rediscover, reinvigorate and/or recreate the self. Her clients share one common desire – to maintain their identity, health and wellness while nurturing a family. She is an advocate of creating a fulfilling life as opposed to reaching for the unrealistic notion of perfect balance. Ilene and her husband live on the peninsula with their two little girls. www.ileneschaffer.com

A: Depending on who you talk to, or what books you read on the topic, you will get a variety of answers…often conflicting. 

The recruiters and other HR professionals who I have talked with, most often prefer to see a reverse chronological format for all candidates.  To help draw the connection between your skills and experience (even if dated), include 3 to 5 bullet points with “relevant experience” at the top of your resume.  If you have more than a two-year break, this “hybrid” style resume may be your best bet for highlighting your transferable skills while at the same time showing your employment history.