Hello,

I have 12 years experience working contract as an administrative assistant as well as performing cost analysis and so on.

I have been working at a fast food restaurant--a non-managerial position--for the past year and a half and did so in order to pursue social work on the side (I thought in this field I would have more chance of working part time hours). The work is arduous for me and I want to go back to working as an admin/working in an office.

I am concerned how my resume will be interpreted: a) I have been job hopping, b) I have taken a 'step down' by working at a restaurant; though, bits of the job are admin-related.

Can anyone advise me on how they see my resume being interpreted and if I should add the restaurant job to the resume at all? My last admin-related job was in Fall of 2010.

Thanks. Any help would be appreciated.

Hi study267,

I would include the restaurant position and emphasize the admin-related tasks and accomplishments, as well as customer service which is also important in the admin field. It's much better to be upfront about this position -- if you omit it and a prospective employer finds out, it could look like you were being dishonest about your work history. It's also better to show this employment vs. a two-year employment gap. You can explain your strong interest in returning to an administrative position in your cover letter.

I hope this is helpful. Wishing you good luck!

Thank you, Kim. That sounds like sage advice, and I appreciate your help.

Kind regards,
study267

Hi study267,

You're very welcome! Please stop by again if you have any questions as you're working on your resume.