This section deals with issues most people experience and that are often legitimate issues for an employer to explore. These issues include things such as gaps in your employment or being fired from a previous job. Employers are more likely to ask about these matters in a direct way.
Even the suggestion that some of the things in this chapter might be regarded as "problems" by an employer will make some people angry. For example, some would object to any mention that someone over 50 might experience discrimination in the labor market-although anyone over 50 knows that their age makes it harder to get a good job. Others resent that employers would even consider such things as race, religion, national origin, child care, and other "politically sensitive" matters in evaluating people for employment. But some employers do consider these things, despite the fact it is unfair or even illegal to do so.
Employers are simply people. They want to be assured that you will stay on the job for a reasonable length of time and do well. Sometimes, you just need to work harder to get this message across to them. You also have to realize that very few interviewers have had any formal interview training. They are merely trying to do their best and may, in the process, bumble a bit. They may ask questions that, technically, they should not.
Consider forgiving them in advance for this, especially if their intent is simply to find out whether you are likely to be reliable. That is a legitimate concern on their part, and you will often have to help them find out that, in your case, their concerns are unwarranted.
In that context, I suggest you consider your situation in advance and be able to present to the employer that, in your case, being "overqualified," having children, being over 50, being a new graduate, or whatever your situation is simply not a problem at all and might even be an advantage.
Gaps in Your Work History
Some of the most accomplished people I know have been out of work at one time or another. About one out of five people in the workforce experiences some unemployment each year. Unemployment is not a sin, and most bosses have experienced it themselves, as have I. The traditional resume technique is to write "20XX to Present" when referring to your most recent job, which makes it look as if you are still employed. If you use this trick, however, realize that it puts you in an uncomfortable position right away. One of the first things you will have to do in the interview is explain that this is not actually the case. Some employers will assume you are misrepresenting other facts about your situation as well-not a good impression for you to create.
Many people have gaps in their work history. If you have a legitimate reason for major gaps, such as going to school or having a child, tell the interviewer in a matter-of-fact way; don't apologize or act embarrassed about it. You could, however, add details about a related activity you did during that period that would strengthen your qualifications for the job at hand. This kind of detail reinforces that you aren't out of touch with what that employer needs; you merely chose not to actively practice it for a while.
During the conversation, it may help to refer to dates in years rather than months. This is accurate and avoids showing short job gaps. For example, if asked when you worked in the restaurant business, reply, "from 2003 to 2005" rather than "from November 2003 to June 2005." Of course, if pressed, give the exact dates without hesitation.