On March 31, 2022, Barbara Corcoran, a prominent investor from Shark Tank, provided valuable advice to a viewer named Ashley during her appearance on The Rachael Ray Show. Ashley faced the challenge of re-entering the workforce after taking a hiatus to care for her children during the pandemic. Corcoran emphasized the importance of acknowledging this career gap on Ashley’s resume instead of omitting it.
“So far as your children and why you left, you should not be afraid of that. Put it front and center on your resume as a last job position,”she said.
Ashley, who previously worked as a physician assistant, had to leave her position in early 2020 due to COVID-19 and the related daycare closures. During this period, not only did she look after her three children, but she also launched a social media platform known as Working Mom Notes. Seeking guidance from Corcoran, Ashley inquired about how best to present her employment gap and whether she could highlight her experience as a mother on her resume.
Barbara Corcoran’s Insights on Navigating Career Gaps and Essential Skills
Modern Employers’ Perspective on Career Breaks
Corcoran pointed out that the pandemic has shifted employer perceptions regarding employment gaps. She stated,
“Employers today are a lot more understanding. They’re not going to hold that against you. I mean, who doesn’t get that one, right?”
Discussing the reasons for a career break is not only acceptable, but it can also demonstrate responsible decision-making. Corcoran noted that the skills developed during childcare—such as multitasking, problem-solving, and time management—are highly relevant and can be effectively highlighted on a resume.
Transforming Content Creation into Marketable Experience
Ashley’s engagement in social media advocacy through Working Mom Notes was another significant aspect of her experience. Corcoran advised that Ashley position her social media work as a credible professional achievement, stating,
“You should put your Instagram work front and center of your resume like it’s an official job because it was.”
Corcoran stressed the increasing demand for content creators across various industries, asserting,
“A content creator is the best paid person in any kind of business today. When you’re entering that workforce, there’s a shortage of talent, and every business is willing to pay for it.”
This demonstrates that Ashley’s experience in building an online community translates into valuable marketing and communication skills that employers are actively searching for.
Cultivating Interest-Aligned Job Opportunities
Corcoran encouraged Ashley to create a list of her “ten dream companies”that resonate with her personal values and career aspirations. Proactive outreach was recommended, even to companies that may not currently have job openings. She elaborated,
“Don’t write to them and make them known that you adore them and you really want to work for them.”
This enthusiasm can set candidates apart in a competitive job market, creating paths for potential employment. Corcoran’s guidance reinforced that taking time for childcare responsibilities should be recognized on resumes, as these experiences contribute to the development of essential skills.
Moreover, she underscored the significance of content creation in the current job landscape and urged job seekers to pursue positions aligned with their interests and competencies.
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