Returning to work after a cancer diagnosis can be challenging, especially if you’ve had to take time off for health reasons and prefer not to disclose your diagnosis. Gaps in your resume might make you feel uncertain about how to present yourself to potential employers. However, there are effective strategies you can employ to showcase your skills and experiences without discussing the reasons for your absence. 

Drawing on insights from a Fast Company article, let’s explore how you can make up for a lack of experience and present a compelling case to prospective employers.

1. Highlight Transferable Skills

Many of the skills you used during your time away from work are likely highly transferable to the workplace. Time management, problem-solving, resilience, and adaptability are just a few examples. The Fast Company article emphasizes focusing on the skills you have developed through various life experiences and how they can be applied to the job you’re seeking.

Example: "During my time away, I worked collaboratively with multiple vendors on redesigning my house, utilizing my project management, budgeting and organizational skills, which are crucial for being a project manager on multiple projects in a professional setting."

2. Leverage Volunteer Work and Community Involvement

If you've been involved in volunteer work, community service, or advocacy during your time away from the workforce, these experiences can be incredibly valuable. They demonstrate your commitment, leadership, and ability to work well with others.

Example: "While managing my health, I volunteered with a local cancer support organization, where I coordinated events and provided peer support. This role enhanced my leadership and communication skills, which I am eager to bring to your team." 

3. Emphasize Continuous Learning

Engaging in online courses, workshops, or certifications can show potential employers that you have been proactive in keeping your skills up to date. The article emphasizes the importance of demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

Example: "To stay current in my field, I completed several online courses in project management and digital marketing. These courses have equipped me with the latest industry knowledge and technical skills."

For a list of free online classes, click here.

4. Create a Skills-Based Resume

A skills-based resume, rather than a chronological one, can be particularly effective for individuals with gaps in their work history. This format allows you to highlight your skills and achievements directly related to the job you’re applying for, regardless of when or where you acquired them.

Example: "Skills and Achievements:

• Project Management: Successfully managed three fundraising events for a nonprofit organization, raising $XXX.
• Communication: Delivered presentations and facilitated support group meetings for cancer patients.
• Digital Marketing: Completed a certification in digital marketing strategies, with hands-on experience in social media campaigns."

For more tips on writing a resume, click here or submit your resume for feedback from a professional career coach, using our Resume Review Service.

5. Prepare to Address the Gap

Be ready to discuss your career gap in an interview. The best answer is brief, expressed in general terms and focused more on the future than the past. We call this technique “The Swivel”, because your goal is to acknowledge and address what is asked, and then redirect – or swivel – the conversation toward something more productive that addresses your professional goals and fit for the job. 

Example: “I was dealing with a family issue that is resolved now, AND I am thrilled to discuss how my management skills can build the team and grow your business.”

For more examples on using The Swivel to answer questions about the resume gap or other challenging questions, please visit our article,  “The Swivel” in Interviews.

To help think about which skills to include on a resume, you may want to read our blog on Listing Skills On A Resume: Which Ones Are Best?