ASK HR: If you accept a position in a field other than your current one due to the economy, will it be a blemish on your resume?

A. It is unlikely that this would be looked upon negatively and, more often than not, will be considered a positive. Many employers understand this situation, especially in a recession and if the position is held for a short duration. Furthermore, this ability demonstrates flexibility to an employer and shows that you are continuing to expand your skills. — Cay Gliebe, VP, Sales and Marketing, Northgate Arinso

A: Anytime the economy has seen a tremendous downturn and the workforce is hit with enormous amounts of closings and layoffs, employers should expect to receive resumes with variations in employment history. Regardless of how these variations are viewed on a resume, it challenges the individual to be creative in explaining and tying their present experience with past experiences, while reflecting their dedication and willingness to maintaining employment and learning new skills. — Ronald Miranda, HR Manager with Aldeasa A.J.V

A: It’s no secret that jobs have been scarce, so future employers should be more open-minded to those candidates who must take a position temporarily outside their career path. What’s important is that the individual remains active and, if possible, finds a job that complements the skills needed in his chosen field and allows him to demonstrate enhanced abilities. — Margaret Hintz, Team Manager for Administaff in Atlanta

These human resources professionals are members of the Atlanta Chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management. If you have a question you would like to ask a panel of local experts, please e-mail it to Sharon Belhamel, vice president of public relations for SHRM-Atlanta at sbelhamel@bellsouth.net. For more information about becoming a member of SHRM-Atlanta, please visit their membership section or call 404.442.7335.

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