Urgent Job Application: How Do I Explain My Employment Gap?

[Trish in Texas]

I am applying for a job but I am not sure how to word something on the application. I though you guys might be able to help.

I left one job and became a homemaker, due to the fact that I had to care for a sick relative. I'm afraid that reason doesn't sound good enough. What else could I say? "Needed a change of pace"; "Took on new position"... Erg! This is hard but I need this job!

Trish in Texas
Independent Consultant

 

[jrstephens]

I am applying for a job but I am not sure how to word something on the application. I though you guys might be able to help.

I left one job and became a homemaker, due to the fact that I had to care for a sick relative. I'm afraid that reason doesn't sound good enough. What else could I say? "Needed a change of pace"; "Took on new position"... Erg! This is hard but I need this job!

Trish in Texas
Independent Consultant

i think that sounds like a good reason. to me it sounds better than needing a change of pace. it should show them you are committed in my opinion. maybe u could go into more detailed about why you had to take care of the relative and list some things that you did.

 

[peichef]

I agree with Jennifer. Leaving a paid position to become a homemaker & caretaker is an admirable, unselfish thing. It wold certainly impress me much more than "needed a chage of pace." The change of pace bit would make me wonder if someone was flighty / lacking a sense of commitment / etc.Go with the truth -- left to care for sick relative. If they ask for details, share them.

 

[KellyTheChef]

I agree with Jennifer. Leaving a paid position to become a homemaker & caretaker is an admirable, unselfish thing. It wold certainly impress me much more than "needed a chage of pace." The change of pace bit would make me wonder if someone was flighty / lacking a sense of commitment / etc.

Go with the truth -- left to care for sick relative. If they ask for details, share them.

Very good! I agree!

 

[Trish in Texas]

Thanks, guys! Pray I get this one, which uses all the great skills I have!

Trish in Texas
Independent Consultant

 

[KellyTheChef]

Keep us posted! If it is meant to be...God will open those doors for you!

 

[hollye44]

Yes, these ladies are right. Just say in your cover letter what the gap in time is about. There's nothing wrong with that. Life happens!! I have reviewed apps before and this has come up, and it's absolutely no big deal. It shows that you are a compassionate and caring person. Good luck with everything. If it is meant to be it will happen!!