Kes
Good morning, I earned a Master's in IMC- Integrated Marketing Communications from Roosevelt University in 2011, but immediately after graduation until now I had to stop working my job that I had at that time --- which was Adjunct Faculty at IADT, and stay at home as a full time care giver for my mom. I of course need a job... It has been years since I have worked a regular position and I can only work part time now due to having to have a homemaker only on a few days.... My question is - Do I even bother to put a line on my resume for the job of caregiver- since it is not a paid job and not a field I am going into. ? I am concerned about how empty my resume looks from 2011 to present....thank you for your help.
Perhaps you can label it under volunteer? Since you had no payment from it and it won't hurt to mention it since people will wonder and ask you on why you stopped working at your previous job. It can be something to touch up on in the convo
Hi K S , Caretaking for parents, children, or a spouse is a common issue for job seekers returning to the workforce. Experienced hiring managers understand this so don’t worry or think they’re going to hold your decision against you.
The key is to outline your Caretaking experience in a way that highlight as many transferable skills for the new jobs you’re pursuing. Definitely add it to your resume. A simple format works well, see below...
Caregiver (Sabbatical to care for ailing parent) from 2011 - Present
Identify and add all the transferable tasks that best describe your daily job responsibilities. Look over the job descriptions for the job(s) you want to pursue and check for tasks similarity. Integrated Marketing Communications job responsibilities typically involve Communication, Organization, Teamwork, Analysis,Problem Solving which are all skills and personal traits also involved in Caregiving.
Keep it simple! When talking with hiring managers mention your reasons for the sabbatical but don’t dwell on those reasons. Remember, managers are mainly interested on your ability to perform the job and fit into the company culture. Keep your conversation focused on your strengths and skills.
Update you resume and upload it onto your Jobcase profile then ask the community to review it and offer feedback. Let me know when you upload it and I’ll definitely take a look. Don’t let this time off keep you from coming to the CityWide hiring event next Tuesday K S . Employers want to meet you!
Enjoy your weekend :-)