How do I show a work history gap?

by Andy
(Tri-Cities, Wa)

I'm 35 and have a wife and two kids. I have been a golf course superintendent for 13 years. I took a new job in March at a new course, it turned out not being anything like it was made out to be. Instead of sitting around waiting to get laid off we moved to eastern Washington.

This was in July we moved. I have a gap in my work history. From July until now. I've been a stay at home dad. I have also done some small landscape projects for family. How should I show my work history gap?

Answer: Employment gaps as short as yours are not really all that unusual since the economy tanked a few years ago. Many people have been out of work a year or more.

That being said, I encourage honesty. Just say your family decided to relocate and that you would be a stay at home dad for a while. You can mention in a cover letter that you've picked up odd jobs here and there. Your past work history should speak for itself. Just be sure to emphasize your strengths and achievements in your resume/cover letter and you should be fine.

To your success... Kathi