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Writing a Resume When You Haven't Worked for Years

December 17, 2008 (10:00AM) by Julie O'Malley, CPRW

Writing a ResumeWe received a blog comment recently from a woman who had left the workforce 18 years ago to raise her children. Now she's looking to return to work, and wondering, "What do I say on my resume, and where do I start?"

Since there are lots of people in this boat, I thought I'd answer this reader's question, and offer some tips for anyone who's looking to make the leap back into (paid) work after a long time away.

Our reader summarized her former work experience like this: 5 years as a secretary at one company; 8 years of general clerical experience at three previous employers (including 4 years in the U.S. Army); and part-time employment on and off in retail, because the hours were flexible. She's been brushing up on her word processing and office skills, is willing to learn or be trained in new requirements, and is seeking a regular office job.

How to Start the Resume

Making some educated assumptions about the skills one uses while raising children and running a household, and combining those with her actual work history, I might start the resume something like this:

SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS

  • Administrative support professional with a total of 13 years' professional experience, including 4 years as a clerk in the U.S. Army
  • Strong computer and office management skills
  • Excellent time manager with extensive experience coordinating schedules, maintaining calendars, arranging transportation, and making travel arrangements
  • Strengths include budgeting, managing accounts payable and receivable, maintaining supplies, and arranging repairs to equipment or facilities
  • Outstanding interpersonal skills and commitment to customer service

From there, I'd follow a typical resume template, presenting experience, education, etc. If there is relevant volunteer experience, that should be included, too. (Note: Some career advisors recommend using a functional resume format if you've been out for a long time, but most recruiters don't like them, and aren't fooled by the lack of dates.)

How to Start the Cover Letter

While the Summary of Qualifications above is all true, it could be a bit misleading since it doesn't mention that the 13 years of experience is from a long time ago. That's where the cover letter comes in.

I would explain the situation in the cover letter, briefly, honestly, and in positive terms. Here's a sample cover letter opening:

Dear Ms. So&So,

With more than 13 years' professional clerical experience, I believe I have the right combination of skills, personality, and work ethic to be a very effective contributor in the Assistant Office Manager role. I would appreciate the chance to meet with you to discuss this opportunity.

For many years, I have been channeling my administrative support skills into raising, educating, transporting, and managing the busy schedules of three children, the youngest of whom just entered college. I am now looking forward to returning to an office setting where I can transfer my skillset back into the professional arena.

Conclude the cover letter with any other details that support your ability to meet the employer's needs.

Don't Limit Your Options

One other tip for returning workers is to not restrict yourself to the same field or industry you used to work in. For instance, our reader wants an office position. She should consider every type of business — huge corporation, small-town accounting office, downtown hotel, non-profit foundation, school, hospital, insurance company, dental practice, factory ... and the list goes on.

And don't forget about staffing agencies. ("Temp" work was my secret weapon for re-entering the workplace after 10 years at home.) They might even be able to help you sharpen your skills and get your feet wet with various types of short-term office jobs.

The days of straight and narrow career paths are long gone. Workers leave their jobs for lots of reasons, stay away for months, years, or decades, then get back in. Stay positive, stay flexible, and think creatively about where your skills can help a business succeed, and your transition should be (relatively) painless.

Any other hints or questions about returning to work after a long absence? Leave us a comment!

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Comments (21)

This is a great blog with very good information. I have followed your advise and and have put your opinons to good use. It assisted with updating both my cover letter and resume. I feel confident that I will hear back from potiential employers.

Posted by: L G | December 18, 2008 at 10:40 AM | Quote This Comment
@ LG

Thanks so much for the kind words. It's very gratifying to hear that our information is helping people. (That's the whole point, after all.)

Much luck in your job search!

~ Julie

Posted by: Julie O'Malley | December 18, 2008 at 10:50 AM | Quote This Comment
Thank you Julie for answering my post. You've given me many ideas and suggestions to work with in preparing my resume after 18-years.

Should I also explain the dilemma about my references? All the Companies that I did clerical work for (excluding the Army) are now out-of-business or should I wait until they inquire. I'm afraid of looking like I fabricated my work experience.

Also, I failed to mention that the past two years I have been self-employed part-time as an independent contractor for Professional Mystery Shopping Companies. It includes much scheduling, time management, narrative writings, data input, deadlines, and communication skills along with actually performing the mystery shop. I kept track of my payables, receivables, expenses, and SE taxes.

Would I lead off my work experience with the self-employment, since it is the most recent.

My biggest hurdle, I feel, is self-confidence and believing a potential employer would find my skills useful.

I would love to hear from others that have been successful at finding employment after such a long absence from the regular work force.

Thanks again for your help.

DMay

Posted by: DMay | December 18, 2008 at 5:38 PM | Quote This Comment
@DMay

You're welcome! As for the references, I wouldn't even worry about that. If possible, ask your current contact from the mystery shopping if s/he will serve as a reference. It would be surprising if any of your former employers were still around after 18 years.

Yes, you should put the Mystery Shopping first in the experience section, and you can also put any volunteer work in if it was relevant to the kind of job you're going for.

If you click on my name in the author listing (left margin), you'll see a list of all my blog posts. There's one about references, one about volunteer work, and one about "the one thing you need to return to work" -- which as you already know, is self-confidence!

You seem like a very motivated and eager job candidate, and that's so very appealing to employers. Chin up! :)

-Julie

Posted by: Julie O'Malley | December 19, 2008 at 10:09 AM | Quote This Comment
thanks... it help me a lot!

Posted by: pongo blog | December 20, 2008 at 8:39 PM | Quote This Comment
Hey Julie,

I've gleaned through yours and other blogs on this site and have found them very useful. I am a writer looking to expand upon my expertise. Without ever having realized it, I have been editing and writing all of my family's and friends' (and their friends') resumes (among other things). I do not have any formal training in editing and proofreading or resume writing. I have a Bachelor's in anthropology and just a love of writing. My explorations have found the CPRW test, at a hefty cost, along with the guide book you get with it. What else would you recommend to help study for and benefit a career in resume writing? As well, what about editing? I have tried getting in at my local newspaper, who is not hiring right now, but what could I give them as experience if I have no 'official' experience other than the work I have done for students and the like?

I know it is a lot to ask for such advice, but I need it. I have looked online for degrees and such and have found nothing. Going to school locally is not feasible as my husband is military and we are constantly moving. Any advice you can give would be tremendous.

Thank you, Jessi-Lyn

Posted by: Jessi-Lyn | December 24, 2008 at 1:59 PM | Quote This Comment
Very great article and helpful for the person who has not worked for long years.

Posted by: Advisor Resume | January 09, 2009 at 8:07 AM | Quote This Comment
What if the reason for a gap is not so "nice". My mom had a surgery, was in too much pain to work and quit. She then suffered and dealt with pain and depression and has not had a job for a number of years. Now she is back on her feet and doing well, but we are struggling with how to do her resume.

Any help is appreciated.

Posted by: lilfordwmn | January 19, 2009 at 11:40 PM | Quote This Comment
@lilfordwmn

First, keep in mind that your medical history is private, and there is no need to disclose details about past medical conditions to a future employer. In fact, it would be unwise to do so. In your cover letter, allude to the break, but don't explain its nature (yet).

For instance, you could replace the 2nd paragraph in the example above with something like:

"After an X-year break from the workforce, I am pleased to be returning to the professional arena, and I am confident that my X and Y skills can contribute to your business success." Emphasize your past work experience, and don't forget volunteer work (unpaid work is just as valid as paid, if it is relevant to your desired position).

In an interview, they will probably ask about the gap. Practice a brief, factual statement such as:

"I had surgery in 2002 that required considerable rehabilitation time, so that was my focus for awhile, and then I took the opportunity to [travel? spend time with family? volunteer? pursue my passion for ___? ]. Now I'm very excited to get back to ____, and my skills seem to fit your needs nicely. What do you think is the most important quality to be successful in this position?"

The key here is to be brief and factual -- not emotional, not detailed -- and then to change the subject by asking a question at the end.

Don't give the exact nature of the surgery, or mention the subsequent depression, etc. That's none of their business! Maintaining your privacy is not the same as lying.

Good luck!

- Julie

Posted by: Julie O'Malley | January 20, 2009 at 12:28 PM | Quote This Comment
I find myself in the same situation; having not worked in at least 10 years and looking to find a way back in. Thank you for offering your tips and advice.

Posted by: LC | April 22, 2009 at 7:54 AM | Quote This Comment
Volunteer work or continuing education will always be a good idea to fill in years of employment gaps.

But if you didn't have either, just be honest with your experience instead of what other job seekers extending employment dates just to cover the gaps.

Posted by: Resume Builder | Blogger | May 18, 2009 at 8:17 AM | Quote This Comment
"@lilfordwmn

First, keep in mind that your medical history is private, and there is no need to disclose details about past medical conditions to a future employer. In fact, it would be unwise to do so. In your cover letter, allude to the break, but don't explain its nature (yet).

For instance, you could replace the 2nd paragraph in the example above with something like:

"After an X-year break from the workforce, I am pleased to be returning to the professional arena, and I am confident that my X and Y skills can contribute to your business success." Emphasize your past work experience, and don't forget volunteer work (unpaid work is just as valid as paid, if it is relevant to your desired position).

In an interview, they will probably ask about the gap. Practice a brief, factual statement such as:

"I had surgery in 2002 that required considerable rehabilitation time, so that was my focus for awhile, and then I took the opportunity to [travel? spend time with family? volunteer? pursue my passion for ___? ]. Now I'm very excited to get back to ____, and my skills seem to fit your needs nicely. What do you think is the most important quality to be successful in this position?"

The key here is to be brief and factual -- not emotional, not detailed -- and then to change the subject by asking a question at the end.

Don't give the exact nature of the surgery, or mention the subsequent depression, etc. That's none of their business! Maintaining your privacy is not the same as lying.

Good luck!

- Julie"


These words of wisdom are excellent. I have been out of the workforce for over 10 years and graduated from college in 2006. I am ready to return to the workforce and attend law school. Keep up the good work.

Posted by: Lesa Alexander | July 10, 2009 at 9:27 AM | Quote This Comment
I am also returning to work after 7 years off with my children. I am having trouble updating my resume.

I have volunteer information to enter, such as booster club officer. I held fundraising office for 1 year and treasurer for 2 years. Obviously this is my most recent "work" experience, other than running a 5 person household. My question is where do I put this information...before my actual work history or before? I am scared if it is put after that an employer won't get past - you haven't worked in 7 years - not interested!

Any help will be greatly appreciated!

Posted by: Leah | July 15, 2009 at 11:45 PM | Quote This Comment
@Leah

You can put the volunteer jobs in your Experience section, just as if they were paid jobs. The presence or absence of a paycheck doesn't change the skills you acquired.

You can get some more ideas by looking in our blog archives for a post called: "You Can (and Should) Put Volunteer Work on a Resume."

Also? Don't sabotage yourself with confidence-crushing thoughts like "...you haven't worked in 7 years - not interested! " I've been there, and I know how easy it is to think that way, but you have to fight those thoughts. Most employers want someone who is enthusiastic and capable of learning. They can teach the right person how to do things, but they can't teach a positive, confident attitude.

Go get 'em! ~Julie

Posted by: Julie O'Malley | July 16, 2009 at 10:14 AM | Quote This Comment
I worked as a legal secretary at three law firms 18 years ago. Since then I have worked in the restaurant industry. My restaurant experience is impressive, but I desire to return as a legal secretary. How do I word a resume that gets me an interview?

Posted by: Margaret | August 16, 2009 at 2:46 AM | Quote This Comment
HOw would i word a cover letter that...

I havent worked in 12 yrs and have worked in facortys as assembly total 7 yrs and voluntereed in a nursing home 1 yr and also worked at a in home day care froe elderly 2 yrs and returning to work but wanting to do data entry as a receptionist thank you.

Posted by: Sherrie | September 13, 2009 at 3:09 PM | Quote This Comment
@Margaret and @Sherrie

Since you're both looking to change fields, you should include an Objective on your resume. (Changing careers is one of the few times I recommend an Objective statement.) The idea is to confidently explain how you are qualified for the desired roles by explaining your transferable skills.

Here are a couple of samples, based on the little I know about you. Use these as guides, but edit them to make them your own. In addition, use a similar method to further explain your transferable skills in the cover letter:

Margaret: OBJECTIVE: To provide administrative support in a law firm that can benefit from my X years of direct experience as a legal secretary, as well as the ____ skills developed during a long career the restaurant industry. [Fill in the blank with skills that are beneficial to a law firm, such as organization, discretion, attention to detail, recordkeeping, scheduling, or whatever matches the jobs you're applying for.]

Sherrie: OBJECTIVE: To secure a challenging position as a receptionist and data entry clerk, applying the computer proficiency, customer service skills, attention to detail, and interpersonal talents acquired through 7 years of professional and volunteer roles in factory assembly work and caregiving roles with the elderly.

Hope that helps!

~Julie

Posted by: Julie O'Malley | September 14, 2009 at 10:29 AM | Quote This Comment
julie i am a type of person who loves to work and eager to lean. but the problems i have is to intake anythink thats give to me. its like i know what iam supose to do but it dosnt help when youre going on a interview. its makes upset when i know i have a interview and i know i am going to mess up.can you help connie

Posted by: consuelo corgan | October 28, 2009 at 9:53 PM | Quote This Comment
@Consuelo Corgan

Thanks for commenting, Connie. First of all, try to relax a bit and remember that we're all human. Hiring managers don't expect you to be perfect.

My advice would be to write things down so you don't forget them, and to be very open and honest. It's OK to tell your interviewer you're nervous, and might need to glance at your notes to refresh your memory on questions you want to ask, etc.

I also recommend that you read this Learning Center article titled "Step-by-Step Job Interview Preparation."

http://www.pongoresume.com/articles/49/job-interview-preparation.cfm

It will help build your confidence if you know you've taken all the necessary steps before, during, and after your interview.

Best of luck,

Julie

Posted by: Julie O'Malley, CPRW | October 29, 2009 at 10:54 AM | Quote This Comment
I graduated college with an accounting degree about 10 years ago. I never got my foot fully in the door. I had one job, and several for legitimate but small companies owned by my family. I have recently been a nanny but also for my sister. So to sum it up almost all of my limited experience has been with family and the most recent has nothing to do with accounting. Any help would be appreciated.

Posted by: Dana Steiner | October 29, 2009 at 9:33 PM | Quote This Comment
Hi Julie,

I have over 20yrs exp in cust serv, 10yrs in training/development and 12yrs exp as a project program analyst with a major telecommunications company. I also have 3 years experience as a copywriter in a variety of genres. I have chosen to switch careers altogether and want to go in the legal field, as a writer and/or use my cust serv and training/development exp. However, I have no legal experience, nor have taken legal courses. How can I use the experience I currently have and obtain a legal position? Should I put on the resume the objective and my summary of qualifications. What positions would I even qualify for in the legal field with the background I currently have?

Posted by: Vanessa | November 02, 2009 at 12:24 AM | Quote This Comment

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