Nurse Question:

Hiring managers are trained to spot inconsistencies and gaps on your CV. Don’t leave employers guessing. If you haven’t worked for a period of several months include a line to explain what you were doing, for example “full-time carer to my mother” or “extended period of maternity leave.”

‘You should be prepared to talk about any gaps in employment, and indeed any other issues an employer might pick up on from your CV, such as only staying in a post for a short time,’ warns Cathy.

‘If you’ve been job hunting for a while, you should make it clear that this has been your decision, rather than an inability to find work. For example, you might say: “My work is very important to me. I don’t want to take any nursing job, I’m looking for a position where I can use the skills and experience I have gained and continue to develop in the future.”’