What do you do if you need to address a layoff in your career history on your resume and cover letter?

1 Be Honest

Honesty is the best policy when dealing with a layoff on your resume and cover letter. Avoid the temptation to fudge the dates of employment to cover the gap; background checks can easily reveal the truth and damage your credibility. Instead, focus on the positive aspects of your experience. If the layoff was part of a larger company downsizing or restructuring, make sure to note that the situation was beyond your control and not reflective of your individual performance.

2 Stay Positive

When you address a layoff, maintain a positive tone and focus on growth. Your cover letter is an excellent place to briefly mention the layoff while emphasizing how the experience has prepared you for new opportunities. Highlight any new skills or training you pursued during your time away from work. This approach shows resilience and a commitment to professional development, qualities that are highly valued in administrative roles.

3 Highlight Learning

Use the layoff as an opportunity to highlight what you learned during your time off. Maybe you took a course, volunteered, or worked on freelance projects related to administrative assistance. This shows prospective employers that you are proactive and continued to hone your skills and expand your knowledge base even when not formally employed. It also provides tangible evidence of your commitment to your career and personal growth.

4 Structure Strategically

Structure your resume to draw attention away from employment gaps. Instead of a chronological format, consider a functional or combination resume that emphasizes your skills and achievements. For administrative assistants, showcasing expertise in areas such as communication, project management, or technical skills can be more compelling than a strict timeline of employment. This way, you focus on what you can offer rather than the time you were not working.

5 Tailor Your Message

Tailoring your message to each job application is crucial. In your cover letter, connect your experience, including how you've handled the layoff, directly to the job description. Show how your unique journey, including the challenges you've overcome, makes you an ideal candidate for the administrative role you're targeting. Personalization can make a significant difference in how your career gap is perceived.

6 Consult References

Consider including references who can speak to your character and work ethic during the period of your layoff. A former supervisor or colleague who understands the circumstances of your layoff can provide context and vouch for your professionalism and capabilities as an administrative assistant. This can help alleviate any concerns a potential employer might have about the gap in your employment history.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?