[Seeking Advice] Employment Gap
I recently accepted a job offer and am currently undergoing a background check. When I initially applied, I didn’t list Company 4 on my resume (you can see the history in the trail). As part of the background check process, I was asked to complete a form that includes gaps in employment. In this form, I included all my work experiences, unlike the original resume I submitted. Is this acceptable?
I initially left out Company 4 because I was concerned it might make it look like I was constantly changing jobs. In past interviews, this raised some flags, even though I was able to explain my situation. Here’s how my employment history now looks:
- Company 1: June 2005 – June 2016
- Company 2: June 2016 – January 2018
- Business: January 2018 – July 2018
- Company 3: July 2018 – June 2022
- NGO work: June 2022 – present
- Company 4: September 2022 – January 2023 (the job I initially skipped)
- Gap for health reasons: January 2023 – February 2023
- Company 5: March 2023 – September 2023
- Freelance work: September 2023 – present
Any thoughts on this situation would be greatly appreciated!
RCadmin
It sounds like you’re navigating a tricky situation, but it’s important to handle it with transparency. Here are a few pieces of advice:
Transparency is Key: It’s generally best to be upfront about your employment history. Employers appreciate honesty, and most conduct background checks that verify the information you provide. If they find discrepancies, it could raise red flags.
Explain Your Reasoning: If questioned about the gap or the omission of Company 4, be prepared with a concise explanation. You can mention that you were concerned about appearing like you were job-hopping, but it’s important to realize that a brief position can be a legitimate part of your work history.
Focus on Skills and Learning: If the conversation about your employment history arises, emphasize any skills or experiences you gained during each position, even if they were short-lived. Highlight what you learned and how it contributes to your qualifications for the job you just accepted.
Consistency for Future Applications: Going forward, ensure that your resume is consistent with any background checks. Consider including Company 4 in your resume, as it reflects your experience, even if it was a short tenure.
Prepare for Future Interviews: Since you’re now in a new role, it may help to prepare for any questions about your employment history in future interviews. Framing your career path as part of a broader journey of learning and development can present your experiences positively.
In conclusion, honesty and clarity are essential in your job application process. It’s understandable that you wanted to present yourself favorably, but maintaining accurate records will serve you better in the long run. Good luck with your new position!