How Do I Address Unemployment on My CV?

It might seem daunting to highlight any periods of unemployment on your CV but don’t be afraid as it is completely normal and there are many valid reasons as to why these have occurred.

All you need to do is clarify the reason for the period of unemployment in a professional and unbiased manner to give the hiring manager a full picture of your employment history.

You should always try to focus on the positives in this situation. Being out of employment may have given you the opportunity to develop new skills or take part in volunteering work and you should use any such opportunities to your advantage.

Even if it is not purely career related, be sure to comment on how your time out of employment has helped you to develop as a person. Even time spent working on your physical or mental health will demonstrate a ‘get up and go’ spirit which is a desirable trait to employers.

A hiring manager will be more likely to overlook gaps in your employment if you were able to develop yourself professionally and utilise your time wisely.

If you are tempted to lie on your CV, you should always remember that honesty is the best policy. It is much better to tell the truth than to get caught out later down the line. If this occurs, your integrity as a person will be in question.

Examples of what to include:

• Joined groups on LinkedIn which specialise in [your industry] to network with like minded people
• Taught myself how [xyz] by watching video tutorials on YouTube
• Volunteered as a Football Coach at a local school
• Completed an online course in [xyz] to which I was awarded [grades]
• Completed a 90 day fitness challenge

Who is Spencer Clarke Group? 

Since 2017, we've been changing the face of recruitment. From our employees, to the way we do business, to the culture within our office, we're determined to make a difference and create a positive impact on everyone around us.

Recruitment to us isn't just about matching candidates and clients; we’re passionate about finding candidates the perfect job which has the ability to boost their salary and standard of living, better their work life balance and improve their mental health. 

Similarly, we understand the impact which an experienced and skilled employee can make to a business and we love seeing clients thrive through the hard work of candidates which we have placed with them. 

We operate in two sectors:

Private Sector

Public Sector 

In eleven specialisms:

Accountancy & Finance

Education & SEND

Construction, Trades & Labour

Healthcare, Social Care & Nursing

Housing

Corporate Functions & Business Support

HR & Workforce Development

IT & Digital

Property & Asset Management  

Planning, Development & Regeneration 

Highways, Infrastructure & Engineering

If you’re searching for a new role, why not visit our job page to take a look at the latest opportunities? Alternatively, upload your CV and one of our experienced consultants will contact you when a relevant opportunity becomes available. 

If you’re struggling to fill a role, why don’t you give us a call on 01772 954200 to see how we can help? One of our consultants will be happy to listen to the challenges which you are facing and advise on the best possible solution for you.