Employment gaps on r?sum?s stand out as a disadvantage to jobseekers.
Ninety-three percent of employers, according to a survey by OfficeTeam, a staffing service that questioned 150 senior executives, say unintentional periods of unemployment cause them some concern.
These employment breaks could serve as a determining factor for a candidate who seems to otherwise fit the position.
?In the current economy, employers are aware that people could be out of work through no fault of their own, but r?sum? gaps can still pose a significant obstacle for job candidates,? says Dave Willmer, executive director.
Thirty-six percent of executives say they are very concerned when employment gaps appear on r?sum?s. A larger number of managers (57 percent) feel somewhat concerned with periods of unemployment. Only 6 percent of employers aren?t troubled by employment gaps.
?Applicants who have lengthy periods of unemployment should focus on quantifying their achievements and emphasizing specific skills and experience,? says Willmer.
?Given the concern by hiring managers, jobseekers may need to address employment gaps upfront in the cover letter or during interviews.
