Hiding a Short-Term Job in Your Resume: When and How to Do It Effectively

When you find yourself with a short-term job in your employment history, particularly in the IT industry, you may wonder if it’s possible to hide it from your resume or LinkedIn profile. Here are some considerations and strategies to help you decide whether to include or omit this job.

Industry Norms and the IT Industry

In the IT sector, it’s common to have short-term contracts or temporary positions. However, whether you should include or omit a job of two months depends on several factors. If this job is relevant to the positions you are applying for, it might be beneficial to include it. After all, short-term gigs can sometimes showcase skills and experiences that are highly sought after in the industry.

Gaps in Employment

If omitting the job creates a significant gap in your employment history, be prepared to explain this gap during interviews. The truth will always come out eventually, and having a believable explanation ready can help you navigate this situation gracefully.

Skills and Experience

Even if the job was brief, if you gained valuable skills or experiences during that period, consider including it in your resume, but in a way that highlights those aspects without emphasizing the short duration. This can help in balancing the narrative of your career progression.

Honesty Matters

No matter what, always be truthful in your job applications. If asked about your employment history, be prepared to discuss your previous roles and any gaps in your career. Transparency is key in maintaining a positive relationship with potential employers.

Overall, the decision to include or omit a short-term job should align with how it fits into your overall career narrative and your career goals.

What if I want to Remove It from My Profile?

You can choose to remove the short-term job from your profile and present it as a two-month employment break. Unless you list all jobs for the past few years on an application, you are not breaking any significant rules. However, if you get caught, having a reasonable and believable explanation is crucial.

Conclusion

While it may seem easier to hide short-term jobs, the approach you take should reflect the overall narrative of your career history. Honesty and transparency are essential, and always be prepared to explain any gaps or changes in your employment history. With a well-thought-out strategy, you can ensure that your resume and LinkedIn profile showcase your best and most relevant experiences.