There is absolutely no need to be apprehensive about explaining your past job loss to your present interviewer. There are a number of legitimate reasons for a gap in employment like continuing education, being self-employed and even traveling. When attempting to explain a past job loss, do not try to cover up something in the resume or application with an unnecessary lie.

The typical approach should be to highlight what needs to be spotlighted and ignore the unnecessary. Do not overlook even a three month or five month employment stint when explaining your job loss. Remember - the application and resume are legal documents that are attested to bearing the truth, and even the elimination of a short-term employment history is less than candid. When you are explaining your past job loss, remember to double check that the career history on the application matches that on your resume.

It is recommended to be completely open and honest, going into every detail, when interviewing. If you are dishonest, you can end up being terminated. All of us have been unemployed at some time. Including every job you have ever done is an excellent idea. Be sure to include references and referrals when explaining past job loss.

When explaining your past job loss, display your initiative - note that while you were out of work, you learned to do lots of different things. This way, you get a chance to subtly eliminate the focus on the fact that you lost your job, and highlight your willingness to deliver quality work. This also puts you across as a person who is passionate about your work and is genuinely interested in going that extra mile.

It also helps to highlight your expertise in certain skills, such as accounting and organizing. This opens up new scope for you and the interviewer's perspective of you. Focus on what is and not on what is not there. Analyze your skills and list them. Don't be afraid to highlight your accomplishments. The void may be there, but you can still convert it into your advantage.