A lot of people - especially in a job economy like that of South Africa - have gaps in between jobs that we may struggle to explain. Often, many people don't recognise that it may jeopardise our chances of getting a new job. For recruiters and potential employers, this is an important question because it proves to them whether or not you're a self-starter.
It is important to have something to keep you busy as you're looking for your next employment. Having something to keep you busy gives the employer the impression that you can innovative and are proactive. In any community, it is possible to find volunteer opportunities - even just a few times a week - and ways to get involved to keep yourself busy somehow; not only do these opportunities help you develop a work ethic, but if you are consistent and do well, you can obtain a valuable reference for future paid work opportunities.
Show your next employer that you can take initiative and that you don't always need to be pushed to perform r only when people are watching. This attitude will not only win you favor with the right people but you also never know what opportunities may come of the time you give to volunteer or your ability to progress with a potential employer. Sitting and waiting for opportunities to come to you can make you redundant and make a possible employer doubt your capacity to be up to the task or even do above what is asked to perform with excellence. It's important to find yourself different things to do in between jobs so you can remain competitive - excellence is a skill many people can't compete with; make sure you develop that skill no matter where you may find yourself in your career.
Always have something to explain a gap on your CV, you might be working on a project or helping at an NGO or wherever you can volunteer. If you have a side business, do not be afraid to mention that if you are asked what have you been doing, this shows creativity and resilience.
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