The truth is a good place to start. But, don't go into
details about why you needed the surgery or how it kept
you off work.
First, this is a personal issue.
Second, as long as you can perform the job you're applying
for, it's not relevant. What's relevant are your skills
and knowledge that make you qualified for the position.
If you focus on your surgery, so will the interviewer.
That's not what you want.
Third, too much explanation detracts from the discussion
that needs to take place. When it comes down to it, your
surgery and recovery time are circumstances of your life.
People take off time from work for all kinds of reasons.
To raise kids. To take care of sick relatives, to go back
to school, take a sabbatical or have surgery. You can't
change your circumstances. You just need a logical explanation,
and then practice in how to skillfully move to a more relevant
discussion.
It is pretty likely that you'll be asked about the gap
in your work history. So if and when that happens, simply
explain that you had surgery that required a lengthy recovery.
What is important for an employer to know is that you're
fully recovered and raring to go. So after you share the
reason for the gap (again--when they ask), talk about how
you've kept up-to-date in your field, your knowledge and
skills and how enthusiastic you are about contributing
that to the right company.
If you feel compelled to bring it up first--although I
don't recommend it--pick the right time and words. The
right time is when you sense an interviewer is confused
or wondering about the gap. Or if you're sharing an overview
of your work history and honing in on the last year. But
don't dwell it.
Try not to make this into an issue in your head either.
If it is, you'll go into the interview apprehensive and
worried. The employer will sense it and wonder what you're
hiding.
While recovering, concentrate on what you control:
- Your own thoughts about how you view this year and
a half of your life. Instead of being out of work, you've
been taking care of yourself.
- Your knowledge and skills in your field. Read trade
publications about what's been happening in your field,
talk to colleagues and brush up on your skills if you
can.
© by Andrea Kay
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