So you’ve made it to the interview stage; but the hiring manager has a few concerns about your work history. Maybe you have limited experience or have been unemployed for an extended period of time. So, how do you defuse suspicions about work history “red flags” so that you can snag the job?  Below are a few tips:

1. You have a gaping hole in your work history. If you’ve been unemployed during this recession or you’ve only been able to get short temporary assignments here and there, some employers may see that as a red flag.  Job seekers should have a ready explanation for why there is a gap in their work history. Keep it simple and non-dramatic. Were you suffering like so many others from high unemployment? Did you take off to raise kids? Or, does the work history gap exist because you were caring for an ailing parent? Whatever the reason, be ready to explain.
2. You held a lot of jobs in a short period of time. Even in an age where changing jobs is accepted, being seen as a habitual job hopper is not to the benefit of job seekers.  Job seekers who have held a lot of jobs in a short period of time need to be prepared to convince the hiring manager that they intend to stay with the company for the long-term. Explain why you switched jobs so often and also make it clear why this particular job is the one that will make you want to stay.
3. You are a recent law school graduate with little real world experience.  Recent graduates need to get creative about relating their internships and part-time work during college to the needs of the law firm.  Carefully articulate how your limited work experience has prepared you to take on the responsibilities of the job for which you’re applying.