As members of the military community we are often faced with relocating to accommodate our military spouses. This is often accompanied by us leaving our current places of employment. Here are a few tips designed to assist you in making your transition as smooth as possible and suggestions for addressing it with potential employers when the need arises.

Gaps In Employment Can Be Caused By A Multitude Of Reasons

Military Move of Spouse
Organizational Downsizing
Position Abolished
Reduction-in-Force (RIF)
Self-Imposed Sabbaticals’
Family Illness
To Further Education
Birth of a Child

Showcase How You Kept Current Professionally

Community Partnerships

Professional Development - To Keep Abreast of Industry-Related Changes

Build Your Brand Through Nonconventional Channels

                                           ~ Freelance/Consulting Projects
                                           ~ Writing Articles
                                           ~ Speaking at Professional Meetings/Conferences
                                           ~ Serving on Committees, Boards, or Leadership Councils

**Read trade journals and attend seminars in your field of expertise – This may come in handy for conversational purposes during an interview or networking sessions**

Focus On Your Strengths

You can’t change your employment history. Your career marketing portfolio should be customized to include your résumé (reflecting both position-related and convertible skills), leadership profile, achievement summary, and several versions of your cover letter (edited to meet hiring requirements of each position of interest).

If you are compelled to explain your gap in employment you can provide a brief synopsis of your situation in your cover letter or during the interview.

Maintain a positive and optimistic attitude and be sure to let the interviewer know that you are excited and ready to return to work!