Going back to IT work

ElGato127

I may be making too much of the situation but here goes anyway . . . 

I've been out of IT work for about 6 months and would really like to get back in. The reason for being out is a personal situation that has required enough time away from work to make full time work impossible.
During that time I've been working as a substitute teacher (the schedule is flexible enough), so no obvious employment gap.
I've also managed to get a few certifications studying in the evenings.
Is there anything special I need to do to address this issue?

Let me know if you need any clarification.

Thanks

Jon_Cisco

How long were you in IT work previously?

Did you leave your previous job on good terms?

I am sure some employers will be critical of life choices but 6 months is a very short time in the course of a career.

ElGato127

I have nearly 3 years of experience
Good enough terms.

Infosec_Sam

I really don't think a 6-month IT gap is that big of a deal at all, especially since you were getting certifications during your break. I'm also interested in how long you were in IT prior to taking a break, but I really don't think you'll be starting back from the beginning. 

My gut would say that your prior IT experience and certifications could get you a phone screen with their hiring manager, at which point you could explain your situation and they'd never think twice about it.

ElGato127

Awesome, thanks.
That helps set my mind at ease about applying.

yuddhidhtir

I think the interviewer will put emphasis on below things,
1- Why you left IT and why you want to join again?
2- How much experience,skills,knowledge you have for the job you applied.

mmanager

And how about freelance work? 

MontagueVandervort

ElGato127 said:

I may be making too much of the situation but here goes anyway . . . 

I've been out of IT work for about 6 months and would really like to get back in. The reason for being out is a personal situation that has required enough time away from work to make full time work impossible.
During that time I've been working as a substitute teacher (the schedule is flexible enough), so no obvious employment gap.
I've also managed to get a few certifications studying in the evenings.
Is there anything special I need to do to address this issue?

Let me know if you need any clarification.

Thanks

Only 6 months plus you held other positions during the time... you'll be ok.

I stayed out for almost 4 yrs. 🤣 and got back in. You can do this. You're much better off than I was.

Just be cautious to keep the "reason" you had to remain away more positive, and I'm certain you'll sail back in.

beads

I've been deployed for a year at a time, came back and didn't have a problem. Just stick with being a bit hungry for the position. Sit with your back away from the chair and people will take notice.

- b/eads

Basic85

Try about 3 years out.  

beads

Still won't matter much if your capable of performing the work.

- b/eads

ElGato127

Would it help or hurt more to mention it in a cover letter?

Swift6

Having completed certs during that time is good. Should boost your prospects for the next job.
You are not really out of it.

Infosec_Sam

ElGato127 said:

Would it help or hurt more to mention it in a cover letter?

I feel like it would be a little out of place in a cover letter. I'd stick to a cover letter that just states your interest in the job and how you would be a good fit, based on your qualifications/experience. 

MontagueVandervort

ElGato127 said:

Would it help or hurt more to mention it in a cover letter?

Hurt .. 100%

beads

Yeah, the cover letter is there to highlight your desire for the position. No need to shoot yourself in the foot explaining a gap in experience.

- b/eads

DatabaseHead

Infosec_Sam said:

I really don't think a 6-month IT gap is that big of a deal at all, especially since you were getting certifications during your break. I'm also interested in how long you were in IT prior to taking a break, but I really don't think you'll be starting back from the beginning. 

My gut would say that your prior IT experience and certifications could get you a phone screen with their hiring manager, at which point you could explain your situation and they'd never think twice about it.

I think it's getting close to making it more challenging getting in, but I agree overall 6 months ain't that big of a deal.  IMO you come up on a year or so and it becomes expotentially harder to get back in......   (Essentially takes more time).  

ElGato127

Is it typical for agency recruiters to do a pre-interview before sending your resume to clients? It's been a little while since I've done this.

AvgITGeek

@ElGato127 I was looking for work after 17 years at the same company so I didn't know what to expect and my very next job came through a recruiter and he did call me to verify some things and get more details about my resume and experience.

ElGato127

It must be common practice to do an in-person pre-interview. I have a second one scheduled for Monday.

MontagueVandervort

I've had a few recruiters want a Skype interview beforehand, so I doubt it's out of the ordinary.

In all circumstances I got an interview within 2 or 3 days after the Skype interview with the recruiter.

Not sure if that's typical also but just throwing it out there in case it's an indicator.