Navigating CV Gaps: Strategies for Addressing Redundancy and Restructuring
In the ever-evolving landscape of the UK retail sector, recent months have witnessed significant shifts marked by administrations and acquisitions.
Notable brands such as Matches Fashion, Ted Baker, and Farfetch have been impacted, highlighting the industry’s ongoing challenges.
However, alongside these changes, redundancy has emerged as a common hurdle for professionals, often resulting in unwanted gaps in their CVs.
While these gaps may have once raised concerns among employers and been seen as a red flag, the evolving hiring practices tend to prioritise candidates’ overall skill set, and experience rather than honing in on gaps in their CVs. Whilst the stigma may have lifted how you address CV gaps remains crucial for candidates seeking to position themselves competitively.
Here are Fella & Jones’ five key strategies for managing CV gaps due to redundancy:
Honesty and Transparency
Clearly articulate the reasons for the CV gap without resorting to blame or criticism of previous employers. Transparency fosters trust and integrity in your professional narrative.
Showcase Transferable Skills
Highlight the skills acquired from previous roles and emphasise their relevance to prospective positions within the retail sector. Demonstrating the applicability of your experiences can bolster your candidacy.
Invest in Professional Development
Utilise the gap period to engage in professional development activities such as training programs, certifications, or volunteer work. Proactive self-improvement demonstrates commitment, adaptability and resilience to potential employers.
Network and Build Personal Brand
Actively participate in networking opportunities both online and offline. Attend industry events, leverage platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals, and engage in relevant discussions to enhance your brand and visibility within the sector.
Address Gaps in Interviews
Approach questions regarding CV gaps with confidence and professionalism during interviews. Articulate the lessons learned from the experience, how you remained productive during the gap, and convey enthusiasm for future opportunities.
At Fella and Jones, our mission is to nurture and build relationships with clients and candidates to find the right match for both parties. Our level of expertise within the industry is exceptional because we take the time to get to know you and your people. This allows us to identify, attract and motivate the right candidates to join the right companies, the first time.
You can contact the Fella & Jones team.
For more details about DiSC profiling and our recruitment services, please contact the Fella & Jones Team directly.
Tel: +44 (0)203 617 1825. Email: [email protected]
