Writing a Resume
A resume is written to show one’s job objective, qualifications, relevant work experience, and accomplishments.
You can be generic when describing yourself and your skillset. Be positive. Do not get discouraged if you do not hear back from companies or are rejected-it happens to everyone.
Being without stable housing does not remove your right to work. If you are able to arrive on time, use tools, carry things, and follow instructions, you can probably get hired. Someone will teach you how to make things or fix things or install things or clean things, and if you show up regularly and on time, work hard and don’t get into trouble, then you will get paid.
If you are worried about not having a fixed address, you can put a forwarding address on your resume. Ask your local job or religious center if they can receive and hold your mail for you. Or, you can ask your family or friends to receive and hold your mail. Another option is to use the General Delivery service that is offered by the US postal service: mail addressed to you will be held at your local post office for up to 30 days.
additional information about USPS' General Delivery service can be found here.
Job Search Resources:
Career One Stop - U.S. Department of Labor's one-stop-shop for career exploration, training, and resources for every type of person.
Find A Job Now - online search tool
VA Employment Programs for Homeless Veterans - programs that provide job assistance, skill development, and employment opportunities for homeless veterans
Idealist Skill Development helps individuals connect with non-profit organizations offering job opportunities and skill development
A note on unemployment & employment gaps
In today’s society, many people from many walks of life are experiencing unemployment. The most damage an employment gap can do to you is if you are dishonest about it.
Many sales jobs care little about your previous experience and will heavily focus on your interview. Regardless of whether you excel or not, you’ll get experience under your belt which is key for whatever the next step in your career is.