How do I Write a Resume for a Laid-Off Employee?

An out of work employee must have a good resume to find a new job

Job-seekers will find no end of help on how to write a standard resume. However, if you were laid off from your last position, you face different obstacles. The resume for a laid off worker may take some extra thought and creativity.

Instructions

1. Clearly state your employment goals. As a laid off employee you may be seeking employment in a different field . A well written objective should show a high level of focus, drive and a plan to succeed at whatever job you choose to pursue.

2. Highlight your job accomplishments. All resumes require you to list your past employment, usually starting with the most current position. In addition to where you worked and what you did, laid off employees should make particular accomplishments stand out. An article on the PharmBoard.com website says, "you shouldn't hide the fact that you've been laid off on your resume." At the same time, you are not required to include it.

3. Fill employment gaps with any unpaid work you might have done. Talk about any unpaid work history on your resume to help eliminate any area of your resume where you were out of work. You can include internships, seasonal jobs and part-time positions you held after you lost your job.

4. Spend your energy on showing your future boss that you are a worthwhile employee who plans to stay and grow with the company for which you work. For laid off employees it is even more important to point out relevant education and any unique talents that set you apart from other job candidates.

Tips & Warnings

• You do not have to include the fact that you were laid off by your last employer on your resume. You can wait to address this until an interview, explaining the circumstances in an honest, professional manner.

• If you choose not to advertise your status on your resume, according to PharmaBoard, you should note how long you worked at your last company rather than the exact dates of your employment.

References

• Surviving Layoffs
• How to Deal with a Layoff on Your Résumé