How can you address red flags in your work history when writing a bio?

- Try not to say negative things about previous employers…even if they deserve it. If you tell me you “didn’t agree with management” as the reason you left, I’m more likely to see you as a potential headache than a future colleague.

In order to not be repetitive of others’ excellent comments I’ll only add new considerations . -explain employment gaps deserves a second nod -list accomplishments, not duties, -data speaks., increased by 25 percent versus increased alone -quotes from previous clients can be as powerful as employer comments -in my field community service is a biggie, think about if what you do outside of work adds to your dtory

Authenticity and vulnerability go hand in hand in cultivating meaningful relationships of trust in both your personal and professional life.

- In my experience, 95% of the resumes I see are date-based (reverse chronological). If I see a “functional resume” it immediately strikes me that the applicant is covering up something problematic. If your Header/Summary is compelling enough, I’ll keep reading.

Employers are far more understanding of career gaps and transitions now that we've collectively experienced a global pandemic. Family members had to leave the workforce to take care of their sick family member, an aging parent, or little ones who no longer had childcare coverage. And many of us just want something different out of our professions now. Work needs to have meaning and we are more willing to seek it out now and invest in acquiring the skills necessary to achieve it. That might make someone an even more appealing candidate.

Transferable skills are like magical keys that unlock doors to new opportunities if you know how to use them. Let your transferable skills shine in your resume, and then voice over gaps with simple explanations. We’re all human — including hiring managers. While your past experience is generally the best info available to showcase how you work, what skills you have, and what value you delivered, most HMs want to understand what you would bring to their role. Effectively showcasing the value you bring helps them look past gaps in your resume.

If you feel a red flag is your current title doesn't match the position you're seeking, think for a minute of the overlap areas. For example, maybe you don't have experience in a "Customer Success Manager" role, but as a Junior High teacher, you created success not only with your students and in their parents' points of view, but you also managed the classroom successfully from your administrator's perspective. Can you parlay that type of success into a career outside of the classroom? Absolutely yes! Don't worry if the titles or the industry don't match--demonstrate your value in how you've created success for others and let those stories of achievements open new doors for you!