Have an interview on Friday, first in 3 years, need advice about what to say about CV gap (nothing untoward!!)

[neverenoughwine]

Hi Ladies,

HELP...well advice really is what I need!

I've just started applying for jobs after settling the kids into school and relocating to a new area (we left the kids father 2 years ago after he suffered severe alcoholism and mental health, I supported him for 4 years until he became violent and we were removed by the police, he then found us earlier this year and we were removed once again this Summer. Sadly for the children he has now passed!)

I haven't worked outside of his company since 2011 (where I was his office Manager and before when I was a Front Office and Duty Manager for a large hotel) all other gaps have been Maternity leave.

Initially I was looking for a part-time position, but I haven't seen anything locally, so thought I would chance my luck and applied for a job this morning and straight away had a phone call wanting me to attend an interview this Friday.

The job sounds great (Customer Services Manager) - I'm firstly wondering what people wear to interviews these days? Secondly how I address the gap on my CV and that my previous employer is now deceased and it was a family business?

Any advice at all greatly appreciated.

....also have no idea where the 'ladies' comment came into it....

I assume in the time since 2011 you've been a stay at home mum? I'd either say focus on the skills you've developed as part of that or simply state that you being at home for your kids during that time was what was needed both for your children and for yourself, but now they are that much older and independent you are in a position to return to the work environment and you're really enthusiastic about this particular position with this particular company and the difference you can make.

With regards to your employer's passing, I would assume there were other people involved in the business who would be able to give you a reference? I'd just put one of those staff members down as your reference.

Sorry I worked for his company until 2013, but as it was run just by him and then me, there's no reference opportunities there :/

Thanks so much for your advice that is very much appreciated :)

xx

I would focus on talking about taking a career break to have a family and to relocate.

Were you self employed? I would state that also, or if not explain you worked for a small business and the owner is now deceased when asked for a reference.
Do you have a previous employer who would be able to provide a reference? Failing that, have you anyone who can provide a personal reference? If so I would have their details ready and explain why you can't provide employer references but that you can provide details for a character reference instead- shows willing and that you just aren't avoiding a reference.

On the outfit front- if the role is any way customer/client facing I would at it safe and go for a suit

I always go for a suit, or at least a blouse, skirt / trousers and smart black shoes, I've only had one person express genuine suprise at me being in a suit, the job was not the job advertised and we agreed it wasn't right for me!