Struggling to Find a Job After a Career Break: Is My Employment Gap Holding Me Back?

I left my job in June 2013 and have been continuously looking for a good opportunity since then. Although I have one year of experience as an HR & Admin Executive, I am still struggling to find a good job. I have exposure to the following activities:

• Operations Activities
• Employee Relations-related activities
• Handling Administrative/Logistic Activities
• Recruitment Activities

Despite my efforts, I am unable to secure a good job. Is the gap in my employment the main reason why recruiters are not considering my profile, or is it because I am currently not working? Kindly give me your opinion.

Thanks,
Tanu

Dear Tanu, please tell me which sources you use to find HR jobs. In my opinion, the current market scenario for new HR positions is not very favorable. The market predominantly requires HR generalist profiles rather than focusing solely on recruitment. However, do not get demotivated; keep trying. Best of luck.

Regards,
Dev

If you expect recruiters or companies to notice you, you must show your presence. Presence includes:

1. Refreshing your resume on various job portals. Most recruiters prefer active profiles as they aim to attract job seekers who are actively looking. While this may not always apply when a company is self-hiring, having an "active profile" generally receives a better response.

2. There are reputable recruitment companies that offer personalized hiring solutions. It's worth exploring these options, but be cautious of fraudulent activities by unprofessional consultancies.

3. Review your social networking connections and try to connect with individuals "one level up" as they are usually responsible for hiring subordinates to meet their Key Result Areas (KRAs).

Alternatively, you can share your contact details, and I can provide you with some options.

Thank you,
Saket

Enhancing Your Job Search Strategy

Make a job seeker profile on LinkedIn India and ask your past colleagues and college professors to write a recommendation for you on LinkedIn. Start joining and contributing to LinkedIn groups of your choice. This will be a good option to get noticed by recruiters.

Meanwhile, involve yourself in volunteer work with NGOs or any other social service activity of your interest while you look for a job. This will increase your network, keep your morale high, look positive on your profile, and give you personal satisfaction that you are making good use of your free time.

I understand your situation since I am also facing similar difficulties. I am from Mumbai, and here the job scenario is alike. I am seeking a job in HR. I have over 3 years of experience in recruitment. Additionally, I have more than 12 years of experience as an Executive Secretary. However, there are hardly any job openings in either of these fields. If anyone has a good opening in either of these fields, please revert back.

All the best, Tanu.

Regards,
Nayana