Employment

[Friday]

I could skip over my previous work history, and explain the 20 year gap as returning after raising children. Should I do this?

 

[Joy Palmer]

I could skip over my previous work history, and explain the 20 year gap as returning after raising children. Should I do this?

It's up to you how you want to address the 20-year gap in your work history. However, it's worth noting that you don't necessarily need to hide or gloss over your previous work history.

Here are some options to consider:

1. Highlight your transferable skills: Instead of focusing on your previous work history, emphasize the skills and experience you have that are relevant to your new field. This might include soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, or technical skills that you've developed through hobbies or other non-work-related activities.

2. Include a brief explanation: You can mention the 20-year gap in your cover letter or resume in a brief and honest way. For example, you could mention that you took time off to raise children and are now eager to return to the workforce.

3. Consider a functional resume format: A functional resume format focuses on your skills and accomplishments rather than your work history. This type of resume might be beneficial if you have a lengthy gap in your work history.

Ultimately, the decision is yours. If you feel more comfortable skipping over your previous work history and emphasizing your recent experience and skills, that's okay. However, don't be afraid to address the gap in your work history if you feel it's relevant or could help you stand out as a candidate.

 

[Friday]

3. Consider a functional resume format: A functional resume format focuses on your skills and accomplishments rather than your work history. This type of resume might be beneficial if you have a lengthy gap in your work history.

Could you show me an example?

 

[Joy Palmer]

Could you show me an example?

Certainly! Here's an example of how a functional resume might look:

***Name and Contact Information***

***Professional Summary:***
A detail-oriented and results-driven professional with 20 years of experience in project management, event planning, and team leadership. Skilled in developing and executing strategic plans, managing budgets and timelines, and motivating cross-functional teams to achieve success.

***Skills:***
-Highly organized and able to multitask effectively
-Strong communication and interpersonal skills
-Experience managing budgets and timelines
-Proficient in Microsoft Office and project management software
-Team leadership and motivation

***Professional Experience:***
*Project Manager, ABC Company, 2018-Present*
-Managed cross-functional teams of up to 15 people to plan and execute successful events and initiatives.
-Developed and monitored project timelines and budgets, ensuring projects were completed on time and within budget.
-Collaborated with stakeholders to identify project goals and develop strategic plans to achieve them.

*Event Planner, XYZ Company, 2005-2018*
-Planned and executed a variety of events, from small meetings to large-scale conferences with up to 500 attendees.
-Managed event budgets, negotiated contracts with vendors, and worked with on-site teams to oversee event logistics.
-Developed and maintained relationships with clients and vendors to ensure seamless event execution.

***Education:***
*Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration, University of XYZ*

In this example, the focus is on the candidate's skills and accomplishments, rather than on their work history. By emphasizing their transferable skills, the candidate is able to demonstrate their potential value to a potential employer, despite the lengthy gap in their work history.

 

[Friday]

I hate applying for new jobs, and the effects of my doing so are difficult to manage.

Are there any skills I can learn to make this process easier?

 

[Joy Palmer]

I hate applying for new jobs, and the effects of my doing so are difficult to manage.

Are there any skills I can learn to make this process easier?

Yes, there are skills you can learn to help make the job application process more manageable. Here are a few tips:

1. Goal setting: Set achievable and measurable goals for your job search. For example, you could commit to applying to a certain number of jobs each week or spending a certain amount of time each day on job search activities.

2. Time management: Create a schedule to help you manage your time effectively. Block out time each day for job search activities, and prioritize the most important tasks.

3. Resume and cover letter writing: Learn how to write an effective resume and cover letter that highlights your skills and experience. Consider hiring a professional resume writer or taking a course on resume writing to help you craft a compelling application.

4. Networking: Expand your professional network by attending industry events, connecting with professionals on LinkedIn, and reaching out to contacts for informational interviews.

5. Interview skills: Practice your interview skills by preparing answers to common interview questions and practicing your responses with a friend or family member.

6. Self-care: Take care of yourself during the job search process to help manage stress and anxiety. This might include regular exercise, mindfulness practices, and time spent pursuing hobbies or activities you enjoy.

Remember, job searching can be a challenging process, but by developing these skills and staying committed to your goals, you can increase your chances of success.

 

[Friday]

It makes me physically ill to apply for new jobs. Is there any way to manage this?

 

[Joy Palmer]

It makes me physically ill to apply for new jobs. Is there any way to manage this?

It's common to feel anxious or stressed during the job application process, but if your anxiety is causing physical symptoms, it's important to take steps to manage it. Here are a few strategies that may help:

1. Seek support: Consider speaking with a licensed therapist or counselor to help you manage your anxiety. A mental health professional can provide you with tools and techniques to help reduce your symptoms and improve your mental health.

2. Practice mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness practices such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help calm your mind and reduce anxiety.

3. Set boundaries: If the job application process is overwhelming you, consider setting boundaries around your job search activities. This might involve setting a specific time each day to focus on job search activities, or limiting the number of job applications you submit each day.

4. Focus on self-care: Engage in activities that promote good physical and emotional health, such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and adequate sleep.

5. Visualize success: Try visualizing your success during the job application process, focusing on positive outcomes. This can help build your confidence and reduce your anxiety.

It's important to remember that seeking help and support is a sign of strength, and there are many resources available to help manage anxiety during the job application process.

 

[Friday]

I have been considering working on a cruise ship -as room & board are part of the job- in order to save up money whilst switching careers.

Are there any other lines of work that include room & board I could look into?

 

[Joy Palmer]

I have been considering working on a cruise ship -as room & board are part of the job- in order to save up money whilst switching careers.

Are there any other lines of work that include room & board I could look into?

Yes, there are several other lines of work that often include room and board as part of the compensation package. Here are a few examples:

1. Camp Counselor - Many summer camps offer opportunities for counselors to live on site during the camp season, providing room and board as part of the compensation package. This can be a fun and rewarding way to gain experience working with children and young adults.

2. Resort and Hospitality Staff - Many resorts and hotels offer room and board for staff, including roles such as housekeeping, front desk clerks, and food service workers. This can be a good option for those looking to gain experience in the hospitality industry.

3. Ranch and Farm Work - Many farms and ranches offer housing and meals for workers, particularly for roles such as farm workers or ranch hands. This can be a good opportunity for those interested in outdoor work or animal care.

4. Peace Corps - The Peace Corps is a government program that provides room and board, as well as a stipend, for volunteers who serve in communities around the world. This can be a great opportunity to gain international experience and make a difference in the lives of others.

These are just a few examples of jobs that may include room and board as part of the compensation package. Before considering any job, be sure to research the company or organization to gain a full understanding of the benefits and expectations.

 

[Friday]

These are just a few examples of jobs that may include room and board as part of the compensation package. Before considering any job, be sure to research the company or organization to gain a full understanding of the benefits and expectations.

Do you have more examples?

 

[Joy Palmer]

Do you have more examples?

Sure, here are a few more examples of jobs that may offer room and board:

1. Ski Resort Jobs: Working at a ski resort can be a great option for those who enjoy outdoor activities and want to experience life in a mountain town. Ski resorts often offer room and board for employees, as well as ski passes and other perks.

2. Cruise Ship Jobs (Beyond Room & Board): While working on a cruise ship can be a great way to save money, there are also many other benefits beyond room and board. Cruise ship jobs can offer travel opportunities, the chance to work in various departments, and the potential for advancement.

3. National Parks Jobs: Working in a national park can be a great way to explore some of America's most beautiful natural landscapes, while also receiving room and board. Jobs in national parks can include roles such as park rangers, interpretive guides, and maintenance workers.

4. Summer Jobs Abroad: There are many programs that offer the opportunity to work abroad in exchange for room and board. Some examples include teaching English as a second language, working on a farm, or working at a resort or summer camp.

5. YMCA Jobs: Many YMCA locations offer housing and meals for employees, particularly for roles such as camp counselors, lifeguards, and fitness instructors.

It's important to research any job opportunity thoroughly before accepting, to ensure that the job is the right fit for you, and that the compensation package is fair and meets your needs.