Is employment gap seen as bad thing in USA?

[Anonymous]

How true is that? Do you think a college graduate that graduated 6 years ago and got only 6 mos job and that her only experience and that she started looking for a job now is that bad thing in her resume? So I graduated in 2017 and I got a job in 2019 for 6 mos and now Im looking for a job again. by the way Im not American just asking if that is a bad thing? by the way I have gaps because I was depressed and I was overweight and my body always aches I have low self esteem finally lost weight now and has better self esteem and more motivation to find a job.

[Oliverlogan263]

Ah man, I can see why you'd be worried about having a gap like that in your resume. From what I've heard, employers can sometimes frown on big gaps when they're looking at candidates.

But I don't think your situation is necessarily a total deal breaker either. Here are a few thoughts:

- The job market right now is still pretty strong in a lot of places, so there's definitely opportunities out there.

- Your degree is still relatively recent at only graduating in 2017, so the skills and knowledge are still pretty current.

- Losing weight and gaining confidence is awesome - focus on how you've grown as a person during that time. Mental health is super important too.

- Maybe focus your cover letters on that short work experience to show you can hold a job, then address the gap openly but positively like you're doing now. Own it.

- Consider temp agencies too if you just need something short term to build up your resume again quickly.

Don't count yourself out yet. There are good jobs out there if you put in the effort. Believe in yourself like I believe in you! You got this.

[BarryLiverstone]

Yes it’s a negative. So best thing to do is get a job and build up a track record. You can get jobs with a lower barrier of entry.