6 Strategies for Addressing Resume Gaps in the Food Industry

April 8, 2024 in Career and Job Search Tips, Interview Tips, Resume Tips

 

Laurie Hyllberg

Laurie champions Kinsa Group’s position as the top food and beverage recruiting firm in the nation and its presence in the global FMCG marketplace. To her Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Business Management, and Marketing she adds over 20 years of executive search experience in the food and beverage industry at Kinsa. Building a network of executives and professionals through membership in the Women’s Foodservice Forum, Institute of Food Technologists, FaB Wisconsin, Chicagoland Food and Beverage Network, and maintaining professional expertise in recruiting as an Executive Board Member for the Recruiters Of Wisconsin association, Laurie is able to connect top talent in the food industry with food and beverage processors and foodservice providers growing their teams at the C-Suite, VP, Director, and Management level. Connect with Laurie today!

 

1. Emphasize Transferable Skills and Relevant Experiences

When facing a resume gap, job seekers in the food industry can highlight their transferable skills and relevant experiences to showcase their suitability for the roles they are pursuing. For instance, if a candidate took time off to travel, they could emphasize how that experience enhanced their cultural awareness and adaptability–essential traits in a diverse industry like food and beverage. By framing their experiences in a way that aligns with the requirements of the roles they are applying for, candidates can effectively bridge the gap and demonstrate their value to potential employers.

2. Showcase Continuous Learning and Skill Development

One effective strategy for addressing resume gaps is to showcase a commitment to continuous learning and skill development. Job seekers can emphasize any courses, certifications, or workshops they have completed during their time away from traditional employment. For example, someone interested in food marketing could mention attending marketing seminars or obtaining certifications in digital marketing strategies. By demonstrating a proactive approach to enhancing their skills, candidates can position themselves as dedicated professionals who are invested in their personal and professional growth.

3. Volunteer Work and Community Engagement

Engaging in volunteer work and community initiatives can be a valuable strategy for bridging resume gaps in the food industry. Whether volunteering at a local food bank, organizing charity events, or participating in community gardening and agricultural projects, job seekers can showcase their commitment to making a positive impact in society. These experiences not only demonstrate a candidate’s passion for the industry but also highlight their strong work ethic and dedication to serving others. Employers in the food and beverage sector often value candidates who show a genuine interest in giving back to the community. We are a community that works to feed the world!

4. Freelancing and Consulting Projects

Another effective way to address resume gaps is by engaging in freelancing or consulting projects in the food industry. Freelancing allows individuals to work on short-term assignments, collaborate with different organizations, and gain diverse experiences. For example, a food plant production manager could offer consulting services to small food businesses looking to enhance their production processes. By showcasing the results and outcomes of these freelance projects on their resume, candidates can demonstrate their expertise, problem-solving abilities, and industry knowledge to prospective employers. Remember to emphasize the impact of these projects, such as cost savings, process improvements, or revenue growth, to demonstrate the tangible value you bring to potential employers.

5. Networking and Professional Development Events

Networking and attending industry-specific professional development events can also help job seekers overcome resume gaps. By actively participating in conferences, trade shows, and networking events, individuals can expand their professional connections, stay updated on industry trends, and gain valuable insights into potential job opportunities. Building a strong network within the food and beverage sector can open doors to hidden job prospects, mentorship opportunities, and collaborations with industry professionals, ultimately enhancing a candidate’s marketability and visibility within the industry.

6. Leveraging Online Portfolios and Personal Branding

In today’s digital age, job seekers can enhance their professional presence and credibility by developing personal branding strategies. Creating a portfolio showcasing past projects, achievements, and industry insights can provide employers with a comprehensive overview of a candidate’s skills and expertise. Additionally, maintaining an active presence on LinkedIn and participating in industry discussions can help job seekers stay connected, stay informed, and increase their visibility within the food and beverage community. By effectively leveraging online platforms and personal branding efforts, candidates can position themselves as thought leaders and industry experts, even during periods of resume gaps.

Food and Beverage Executive Recruiters

If you are a talented professional in the food industry, Kinsa Group can help you find the ideal opportunity for your skills and experience. Send us your resume today with or without gaps and we will contact you when new roles become available!

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