FGB community, what is the best way handle the dreaded relocating / out of the area issue on my resume and LinkedIn after moving to take care of an elderly family member?

4 Comments

1. AnonymousJuly 19,2024 at 1:07PM UTC

   Since it was more than 4-6 months, put it on your resume as a "family caregiver" or something similar and indicate in the bullet points "relocated to care for a family member." This takes care of the six-month gap. You shouldn't typically put why you left a position on your resume, only if they ask it in the application or interview, and then only state that you "relocated for family leave to care for a sick family member out of town." Hopefully, you can find something that will pay relocation expenses, but those are also difficult to find.

2. AnonymousJuly 19,2024 at 2:12PM UTC

   Thank you, Anonymous. I've been struggling for the best way to position as while gaps are more accepted now, it's still difficult to explain why I left a good career and then I wasn't working. I appreciate your advice and best wishes! Trying to move back to expensive city and if I could ensure a job that would work in lieu of relocation.

3. AnonymousJuly 21,2024 at 5:58AM UTC

   If it has only been 6 months, you have 2 options:

   Option 1: Limit your resume to your previous professional positions, eliminate location references on your CV (just name, phone, email, LinkedIn url), and if you don’t have one, acquire a cellphone in the city where you hope to work.

   Option 2: Include in your resume summary your desire to find a position in your preferred city.

   Example: Experienced (insert your profession) seeks (pick experience level: mid-level/senior) position in (insert preferred city).

   The first entry on your resume can be Family Caregiver with dates. Your cover letter can explain that you look to return to employment in your preferred city, having completing your temporary responsibilities as a family caregiver. You can then emphasize your employment history in your preferred city.

4. AnonymousJuly 22,2024 at 4:10PM UTC

   Change your location to where the work is or simply leave it off and when asked directly tell them you just moved back. Unless someone is making you and offer your home address is none of their business. You can simply say yes, I can commute daily to the offices there. Get a PO Box if needed for the short term.

   As for why you left be honest. I was the sole caretaker for my parent while they recovered from major surgery and my last role did not allow me to work remotely so I had to leave my job. Now that they are fully recovered and back to normal, I have moved back home again and am looking for a role close to home. End of story.

   Find a room to rent or a friend who might loan a room while you look. Good luck.