should you include maternity leave on your resume?
Including maternity leave on a resume is a personal decision with no right or wrong answer. Here are a few factors to consider when deciding whether to include maternity leave on your resume:
Relevance: If your maternity leave created a significant employment gap, it might be worth addressing your resume to provide context for potential employers. However, if the gap is relatively short or doesn't impact your overall work experience, it may not be necessary to mention it explicitly.
Professional Experience: If you were engaged in professional activities or gained relevant skills during your maternity leave, such as freelancing, consulting, or participating in training programs, it can be valuable to include these experiences on your resume to showcase your ongoing professional growth.
Volunteering or Personal Projects: If you were involved in volunteer work, community engagement, or personal projects during your maternity leave that demonstrate transferable skills or relevant experiences, you could highlight them on your resume as well. It can help bridge the gap and show your continued commitment to professional development.
Legal Considerations: In some countries or jurisdictions, employers are prohibited from discriminating against job applicants based on pregnancy or maternity leave. If you live in such a jurisdiction, mentioning maternity leave on your resume might be optional. However, it's essential to research and understand the local laws and regulations that apply to your situation.
Cover Letter or Interview: Instead of including maternity leave on your resume, you can address it in your cover letter or during an interview if you believe it is relevant to the hiring decision. This approach allows you to provide context and focus on your qualifications and experiences without explicitly mentioning the leave on your resume.
Remember, your resume should highlight your skills, qualifications, and professional experiences most relevant to the job you're applying for. The decision to include maternity leave ultimately depends on how you believe it impacts your overall candidacy and aligns with the employer's expectations.
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