I have not had a job for 7 years and am now looking. How should I address this in my cover letter or resume?

Question

I have not worked for the last 7 years and am now looking for a job. How should I address this. Should I put something in my cover letter when I send out a resume? I have not had a traditional job, but have been helping my husband with his company, managing an office building we own and have an ebay store.

Answer 1

I am a recruiter by trade so I know how hard it can be to get your resume on the “call” pile.

Working with your husband is valid employment.  Internet business has become quite common over the last decade and most recruiters take that in to consideration.

List the name of your husbands company as your employer and detail your duties and such just as you normally would any other position you have held.

Or, if you are not comfortable listing the company name simply use the term “self employed” and give an overview of what you have done.

You might also want to consider a functional resume.  Instead of highlighting the companies for which you have worked it instead speaks to your skills and experience.

Best wishes in your search.

Answer 2

Employers will question why you haven't held a job in 7 years so you should put something in your resume.  Helping your husband is a job think of all the skills you used doing this job and list them.  Not knowing what kind of company your husband has I can not help you in this area.  

Answer 3

Wait until the interview.  I work in HR and if I saw a resume that had no real work experience and a 7 year gap in employment, I wouldn't call that person in for an interview.  You would be better served to explain to them in person what you've been doing for the past 7 years.

Answer 4

You can address this matter in the interview

Answer 5

put that gap as the owner of your own business during that time

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