You’re at a job fair and a recruiter says, “So tell me about yourself.” What do you say? The clock is ticking. This is the perfect opportunity to deliver your pitch.
“Actually, I’m relaunching my career. Before taking a year off, I worked in the hospitality industry, specifically in customer service for over 20 years, and now I’m exploring opportunities in customer service delivery for the medical industry. You see, the reason for my career break is I was taking care of my elderly mother during an illness, and helping her navigate some challenging issues with Medicare and her estate.”
This is a perfectly logical response. It addresses the resume gap, where your expertise lies, and explains your new career focus. You want your pitch to flow naturally, so practice, practice, practice. By getting in front of what could be perceived as potential issues with your work history, you control the narrative. Your goal is to engage your audience and build rapport.
Recruiters are more likely to champion a candidate who is confident and articulate as it makes their job that much easier. Remember, you are building your network with every person you meet. It will make your job search easier too by engaging your growing network in your mission. There is truth in the adage, “it’s not what you know, but who you know”.
For tips on navigating career fairs or honing your pitch, feel free to reach out.