Chat with a Recruiter
Hey everyone! I’m a bit unsure if this is appropriate for this subreddit, but here goes.
I have a meeting lined up with a recruiter soon where they want to get to know me better. I believe the purpose is for them to gather enough information to present me for a potential position.
I’m wondering about mentioning the gap in my resume (from graduation until now) due to a family emergency. Should I bring that up? Also, aside from the job description, are there any key points about myself that I should highlight?
I tend to get anxious during interviews and often struggle with how to present myself, sometimes coming off as either too formal or too casual.
Thanks in advance for any advice! Wishing you all a bit of luck in finding some unexpected cash soon!
RCadmin
It’s great that you have a meeting scheduled with a recruiter! Here are some thoughts on your questions:
Disclosing the gap in your resume: It’s completely okay to address the gap, especially since it was due to a family emergency. Honesty is appreciated, and framing it as a period where you focused on family responsibilities shows maturity and responsibility. You can keep it brief—something along the lines of, “I had a family emergency that required my full attention, but I’m now ready and eager to return to the workforce.” This shows transparency without going into too much detail.
Points to bring up about yourself: Besides discussing the job ad specifics, consider highlighting your skills, any relevant experience (even if it was informal), and what you’re passionate about in your field. Mention any courses you took, volunteer work, or freelance projects during the gap that could showcase your continued growth. This can help paint a fuller picture of you as a candidate.
Presenting yourself: To balance between being too formal and too informal, aim for a friendly yet professional tone. Practice common interview questions with a friend or in front of a mirror to build confidence. Additionally, preparing a few anecdotes or examples of your past work can help you feel more grounded and less anxious.
Lastly, remember that the recruiter is there to help you, and this conversation is a chance for you to get to know them, too! Good luck, and I’m sending positive vibes your way!