Returning to your career after a break can be difficult but, with the right preparation it is achievable. Show employer in an interview that although you took a break you are committed to the business. In today’s society the biggest set back is technology. People who have been away from the working life for a while may not be up to date in the current technology use of their department. Volunteering in your field is also a good way to keep your mind and body active. Provide examples of your work experience prior to the break that show you are willing to be fully invested. Don’t apologize for being out of the game prove to them that you are at the same level if not above your peers because of your break. Stay positive you are not the first person to take a career break and you will not be the last.
The U.S. Government created strict guidelines for employers to follow when interview potential candidates. These boundaries were created for your safety and privacy. When being questioned for a position it is important to know what you are not required to answer to avoid bias in the workplace. Employers are not allowed to ask question pertaining to race, nationality, religious beliefs, age if over 40, sex, including pregnancy, marital status, domestic partnership status, sexual orientation, physical disability, AIDS/HIV status or mental disability. In New Jersey the law is called New Jersey Law against Discrimination and federal anti-discrimination laws. This law prevents employer discrimination based on personal information. These are examples of questions they are not allowed to ask you during an interview.
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Cover letters are to show in detail what your resume outlines. You should always have an updated cover letter regardless of whether the position you are applying for requires one. Using a template from online can make writing a cover letter easier. You can get more personal by searching up the hiring managers name, try to avoid addressing the letter with “to whom it may concern.” A cover letter should be one page long divided into about three paragraphs. Your first paragraph should include who you are, what position you are applying for and why your interested in that position. Complimenting the company is always a good way to show you know what the job is about and how they benefit others and potentially you. Paragraph two is about pitching your sale on why the company needs you. Describe three traits that the company needs that you have based on your prior work experience and life skills. Try not to restate things that were already said in your resume, but more so, expand on them. Do not cut and paste anything from your resume to your cover letter. Paragraph three is a conclusion. You should thank them for their consideration and reiterate that you are the person for the job. A cover letter is your time to shine.
Here are a few videos that may expedite the process of making your cover letter. Good Luck!
5 Things to know when writing your cover letter
How your cover letter should look in 2017
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