Resume Help

[3DisneyBuggs]

I am going to be applying for some jobs, mostly part time. My last job was 3 years ago. My question is: is there a limit to how far back your job exprience can go? I want to apply for a bank job but the last time I worked in a bank was 16 years ago! Yikes! Do I have to list that on my resume?

My last full time corporate job ended 11 years ago. Do I list that one too?
I can hardly remember dates of when I worked where and any copies of my former resumes are gone.I feel like I unhireable now for some reason.Thanks for any advice.

 

[Miss Jasmine]

In your case I probably would not do a chronological resume. I would do a more functional resume outlining skills and then listing out positions.

I did a quick search, here are a couple examples: http://www.wellesley.edu/CWS/students/resume_functional.pdf
http://www.csuchico.edu/plc/funct-resume.html

 

[LuvTigger]

I conduct interviews for my office, although we only hire full-time positions, so I've read a fair share of resumes.

I prefer to see experience in chronological order, but I like Miss Jasmine's suggestion of outlining skills then listing positions.

Personally, I'm always a bit skeptical of people who have gaps in their work history. I would also suggest including a cover letter giving a very brief reason for why you haven't worked in the past 3 years (for example, if you took some time off to raise children, etc.). Although, you'll have to use your judgment on that one, depending on what your reason is.

Once you complete this resume, I would keep it on your computer and continuously update it as you acquire new skills or change jobs. (I learned that one the hard way!)

Good luck!

 

[Miss Jasmine]

I guess I should have added that I review applications and resumes and conduct interviews as well. Yes, normally I prefer reverse chronological resumes, but in cases such as the OP I think that is more of a detriment.

I also agree with addressing work gaps in the cover letter. The cover letter is where one sells herself. It would really be great if you had some volunteer experience during your work gaps.

 

[ducklite]

I agree, outlining your skills rather than employment history on your resume might work best. And definitely address that gap in employment in your cover letter.

As a side note, I got a cover letter last week addressing a gap in employment--the applicant had been in prison!

Anne

 

[3DisneyBuggs]

Thanks for the advice. I haven't worked due to having children. I do plan on having a nice cover letter so hopefully,it will be okay.

 

[Miss Jasmine]

As a side note, I got a cover letter last week addressing a gap in employment--the applicant had been in prison!

This is a fine, fine example of what to leave out of your cover letter.

 

[salmoneous]

I've done a ton of hiring in my life, and the sad fact is that no matter how much time and effort goes into a resume, it usually will be looked at for about 10-20 seconds when going through a "first-cut". No matter what style you choose for your resume, make it very easy for a person digging through a large stack to see the important facts about you.

My guess is that "prior bank experience" is going to be very high on the list of things a hiring manager is looking for. So not only do you have to list it, you want to call attention to it.

Also, the basic point that you have been a SAHM for the past 3-years is key fact you want to highlight.