Explaining an employment gap—over six months without work—can be challenging on a resume and in interviews. However, it's important to view it as an opportunity. Many professionals use these pauses to successfully transition into new roles, demonstrating resilience and proactive development.
Common Reasons for an Employment Gap:
• Health (Yourself or others)
• Family
• Service in the military
• Volunteering
• Education
• Job layoffs / termination
In today's fast-paced world and ever-evolving job market, there are many more factors that can lead to extended periods of unemployment for even the most skilled professionals. These gaps can be difficult to navigate when it comes to job-seeking, so keep reading for tips on turning these challenges into opportunities for growth and success in your career journey.
#1 Be Honest
Don’t be afraid of being candid about your time away from the workforce. The level of detail you choose to share is entirely up to you, but always ensure your professional history is portrayed truthfully. This is crucial, as potential employers often review candidates' social media profiles, which can reveal more about you than you might anticipate.
#2 Consider What You’ve Learned
No matter the reason for your career pause, think about the valuable insights you might have gained during this time. Were you a caregiver? Consider how this role may have reshaped your perspective on customer service. Did you dedicate time to family? Reflect on the art of juggling schedules and attending crucial meetings/appointments. If health was your focus, perhaps you discovered new industry trends or found inspiration in professional development resources during your time away.
#3 Write With Confidence
Remember that employment gaps happen, but they don’t need to negatively define who you are or what you have to offer as a job candidate! Here are a few ideas on how to address this gap on your resume and/or cover letter:
- Resume - When crafting your resume, it's important to use a template that effectively highlights your achievements, such as relevant work experience, awards, certifications, and educational endeavors. If you need to address an employment gap, consider providing a concise explanation in the "work history" section. Alternatively, you might create a dedicated section to describe activities you engaged in during the gap, like volunteering or freelance projects. If health issues were a factor, whether personal or related to someone else, you might opt for a brief comment such as "Career break due to health reasons." Check out this TopResume article for more useful tips.
- Cover Letter - You can address an employment gap in a cover letter in more depth than you might on your resume, which should remain concise. For example, you might say, "During my career break, I took the opportunity to enhance my skills through online courses and volunteer work, which has prepared me to contribute effectively to your team." This approach shows that you are proactive and focused on personal growth, turning the gap into a positive aspect of your narrative. Similar to your resume, if the employment gap was due to an illness, you can address it in your cover letter by being honest yet brief. You might say, "I took time off due to a health issue, which has since been resolved. This experience has given me a renewed perspective and determination to contribute positively to my next role." Focus on your readiness to return to work and your enthusiasm for the opportunity, rather than the gap itself.
#4 Speak With Confidence
When addressing your employment gap during an interview, it’s important to be in control of the situation. You don’t need to disclose information that you’re not comfortable providing, but a well-prepared statement about this absence and why you are now interested in returning to the workforce is essential.
Don’t linger on this statement or let it control the entirety of the interview. You have the power to steer the conversation back towards your interest in the available job position, and why you think you’re the best fit. Here are a few ways in which you can accomplish this:
- "My employment gap was a time for growth, and now I’m excited to dive into a role I’m passionate about. Your company’s work in [specific area] really excites me, and I’m ready to contribute."
- "While my employment gap was unexpected, it allowed me to gain valuable experience in [specific project or volunteer work], which I believe enhances my fit for this position."
- "I appreciate your interest in my background; however, I’d love to highlight my work on [specific project] that directly relates to this role."
- "I took the employment gap as an opportunity to re-align my career. Now, I’m focused and enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute here, especially given my background in [mention relevant skills/experience]."
- "I took that time to reset and upskill. Now, I’m fully prepared to take on the challenges of this role, particularly my expertise in [mention relevant qualifications].”
Check out this Indeed article for more ways to discuss employment gaps with potential employers.
#5 Network to Build Your Connections
Ensure your LinkedIn profile is always polished and ready to impress, and stay alert for career-focused events that can expand your professional network! You never know who you might encounter or what positions they might have available in their organization. If you've been away from the workforce for a while, it's crucial to get acquainted with the latest advancements in processes, cutting-edge technologies, and industry trends. This knowledge will boost your confidence in interviews, equipping you to navigate new career opportunities with enthusiasm.
Conclusion
Having a gap in your employment history doesn't diminish your potential as the ideal candidate for the job! In fact, it can be a testament to your resilience and adaptability. Embrace this opportunity to showcase your unique journey and the skills you've honed along the way. Be transparent with employers about your experiences, but never underestimate your worth. Stand tall with confidence in your qualifications and your eagerness to learn and grow. Your journey is your strength, and it sets you apart in a sea of applicants.