How to explain huge gap in resume (unemployed, jobs, income)

[robertpasa]

I've been unemployed for five years. The reason is simple, I've been looking and can't find a thing. I've basically been hanging around, going to the library, not taking classes. When I show my resume to people, what am I going to say?

[davenj08]

Be honest. It doesn't take long for people to figure out if one is lying. You already mentioned you did not take any classes. Did you do anything over the past 5 years that would improve your skills?

[sjdemak]

Tell them you traveled for five years not really a big deal. Sounds better than saying I sat around and did nothing for that long.

[robertpasa]

Originally Posted by davenj08

Be honest. It doesn't take long for people to figure out if one is lying. You already mentioned you did not take any classes. Did you do anything over the past 5 years that would improve your skills?

I read web pages or magazines about computers and economics.
The problem is, most people say that they do that, and also, will they believe me?
How can I compete with people who were working throughout that time?

[JohnnyMack]

Originally Posted by robertpasa

I've been unemployed for five years. The reason is simple, I've been looking and can't find a thing.

Sorry, but to that I say Bullshyte, if you "can't find A THING" you ain't looking, what have you been doing for income?

[Osito]

Just be honest.

[Osito]

Originally Posted by JohnnyMack

Sorry, but to that I say Bullshyte, if you "can't find A THING" you ain't looking, what have you been doing for income?

Many people have left the workforce for lack of opportunities. Look it up and educate yourself.

[JohnnyMack]

Originally Posted by Osito

Many people have left the workforce for lack of opportunities. Look it up and educate yourself.

SORRY, but "can't find a thing" is a cop-out for lazy people.

[Osito]

Originally Posted by JohnnyMack

SORRY, but "can't find a thing" is a cop-out for lazy people.

Did you do what I said??? Until you do, I'm just going to take your comment as nothing.

[Irco]

I haven't had a steady job since September of 2011. During my time being unemployed I did work cash/day jobs a few a month. Not anything I could support myself with. Finding a good job opportunities is difficult most of jobs I have found had a long commute time.
You must of done something constructive during those 5 years, I know you didn't sit around every single day.