Career changes and gaps in your resume may raise questions for your employer, but they can be presented in a positive light, focusing on your professional growth and development. Here are some tips on how to do it:
Functional summary. Instead of a chronological summary where the experience is presented in chronological order, choose a functional format that focuses on skills and achievements. This will help to emphasize your adaptive and portable skills without focusing on gaps or career changes.
Explain the gaps. If you have a gap in your employment, please include your reasons in your cover letter or in the "More information" section of your CV. For example, you could be engaged in professional development, working on your own projects or taking care of a family member.
Emphasize the link between careers. Even if your previous career seems unrelated to the new one, try to find intersections in skills, knowledge and experience that may be useful for a new role. Explain how your experience and skills can be applied to the new position.
Education and additional courses. If you have received training related to a new career, be sure to indicate it in your resume. This will show your interest and desire to develop in a new field.
Participation in volunteer projects. If you have participated in volunteer projects or non-profit organizations related to the new field, be sure to mention this on your resume. This will show your initiative and desire to develop in a new area.
It is important to present career transitions and summary gaps as opportunities for growth and development, rather than as shortcomings. Convincingly explain your decisions and focus on your strengths, demonstrating your willingness and ability to successfully address new challenges.