Rethinking CV Red Flags When Recruiting

August 29, 2023

In the not-so-distant past, a common belief held among employers was that a stable and linear job history on a CV was the gold standard for hiring. A series of job changes or gaps in employment were often seen as red flags, signalling a lack of commitment or reliability. However, the unprecedented events of the past few years, including the global pandemic and economic turmoil, have reshaped the way we view career paths and the CVs that reflect them. It’s time to rethink the notion of CV red flags and consider the broader context in which career decisions are made.


The Pandemic's Ripple Effect


When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, it sent shockwaves through economies worldwide. Businesses shut down, industries were disrupted, and millions faced job losses. In such an environment, many professionals found themselves in the position of having to adapt quickly to stay afloat. This often meant pivoting to new roles, freelance work, or even taking on temporary positions to make ends meet.


In the pre-pandemic era, these shifts might have been viewed as questionable on a CV. But in the aftermath of such a global crisis, they represent resilience, adaptability, and survival instincts. Instead of dismissing candidates with multiple job changes, employers are now recognising the ability to navigate uncertainty as a valuable skill.


Economic Realities and Career Choices


The economy’s downfall over the past few years has also played a significant role in shaping career paths. Companies have downsized, restructured, and made tough decisions to remain competitive. As a result, loyal employees who once planned to climb the corporate ladder within a single organisation were often left with no choice but to explore new avenues.


Furthermore, the gig economy has surged, offering flexible work arrangements that allow professionals to balance multiple roles or projects. This has led to the rise of contractors, freelancers, and consultants, all of whom may have non-traditional CVs. Rather than interpreting these changes as a lack of commitment, employers are beginning to appreciate the diverse skills and experiences these individuals bring to the table.


At Next Chapter we specialise in Digital, PR and marketing recruitment in Milton Keynes, Northampton and Marketing recruitment in bedford and  Traditionally, marketing roles were sought-after for their stability and potential for long-term growth within a single company. However, the disruptive forces of recent years have led to a shift in the industry. As marketing strategies adapt to the digital landscape and consumer behaviours change rapidly, the demand for versatile and adaptable professionals has surged. Marketing candidates with jumpy CVs now embody the very qualities that are crucial in navigating this dynamic terrain. Their diverse experiences could translate to an ability to craft innovative campaigns, respond swiftly to emerging trends, and seamlessly pivot strategies as needed.


A Shift in Mindset


Employers are gradually realising that a CV is no longer a linear progression from job to job. Instead, it’s a reflection of a candidate’s journey through an ever-evolving professional landscape. Jumpy CVs are not necessarily indicative of a flaky candidate; they can reveal a person’s willingness to embrace change, learn quickly, and take calculated risks. As hiring managers reassess their approach, a few key principles can guide their decision-making process:


Value Transferable Skills: Candidates with varied experiences often bring a wealth of transferable skills from different industries and roles. These skills can contribute to innovative thinking and fresh perspectives within a company.


Embrace Adaptability: The ability to thrive in a dynamic environment has become crucial in today’s world. Professionals who have navigated uncertainty with grace can be assets during times of change within an organisation.


Consider the Whole Story: Instead of focusing solely on gaps or frequent job changes, employers should engage candidates in conversations that help them understand the reasons behind these choices. Life events, personal growth, and changing priorities can all contribute to a diverse career path.


Prioritise Learning Agility: Candidates who have been exposed to various roles are often quick learners. They’ve had to adapt to new situations and acquire new skills on the fly, which can be invaluable in fast-paced industries.


In conclusion, the pandemic and economic shifts have reshaped career paths in profound ways. It’s time for employers to evolve their hiring mindset, moving away from viewing jumpy CVs as red flags and instead recognising the strengths that come with adaptability and resilience. As we move forward into an era defined by change, embracing candidates with diverse experiences could be the key to unlocking innovation and success within organisations.


Next Chapter specialises in marketing, PR and digital recruitment in Milton Keynes. For more information on potential job roles contact our team today. Alternatively, if you have a position to fill, contact our team to discuss your PR, digital or creative marketing recruitment needs.


Next Chapter Recruitment


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