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summer jobs/jobs around university area and employment gaps

Because I have a long hall contract (and I can pretty easily get from my university to my homecity), I am planning to try and get a summer job in my university city. However there is a massive gap in my cv because I haven't had a job since going to university (there are a few reasons for this including that I have being trying for jobs however have been unsuccessful and I was originally going to drop out at xmas but was encouraged to stay). Does anyone have any advice on what to do/say? I would really like a job over summer especially as I have a really long summer break.

Reply 1

De Montfort University

Official Rep

Original post by R4spB3rri3s

Hiya,

It's great to hear that you are looking for a job over the summer! As you have a long summer break it will be great to entertain yourself, earn some money and some experience.

In regards to the gap in your CV this doesn't have to be an issue and my advise would be to be pre-pared to answer the question of what did you do / why is there an employment gap. Be open and honest as employers will appreciate this and after all they are human and can understand. After explaining, you can divert their attention to what you have learnt in the meantime (during the gap) the skills you have gained and experience. For example, whilst being at university you may have developed your communication skills, organisation, independence, team work, written skills etc. and also wanted to focus on your studies.

Without knowing any information, this can come across a bit vague but you can take this and add personal touches.

I would also recommend having a look online for advise such as
https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/careers-advice/explain-gaps-in-work-history
https://www.prospects.ac.uk/careers-advice/cvs-and-cover-letters/cover-letters/how-to-explain-a-gap-in-your-cv
https://uk.indeed.com/career-advice/cvs-cover-letters/how-to-explain-employment-gaps
https://www.cvhelp.co.uk/blog/gaps-in-employment

I hope this helps,
-Maddie, second year Health and Wellbeing in Society student at De Montfort University