Applying for a job that showcases skills I've not used in a while.
Anonymous
Applying for a job that showcases skills I've not used in a while.
I'm 57 in the middle of my second career. I am in a VERY career stunting job as of the past 9 months, and I am actively seeking a new job. There is a job I was recommended by a former coworker to apply for. The job definitely excites me and I believe I am up for the role; but it focuses on skills I have not directly meaningfully used much in about a decade. They are analytical skills - not something that goes out of date - but I feel really 'rusty' and I'm not sure how (or if) to explain why I have not been using these skills. (In truth, going through a divorce greatly derailed my career trajectory, but that sounds like an excuse...). My question is this: in a cover letter and hopeful eventual interview, how to I deal with this? Do I just ignore the long gap of being in the type of role they need, and discuss my past experiences, (and recent related experience) or do I try to briefly explain the gap? What would you do?


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