Employment gaps are common and can occur for various reasons. Individuals may take time off for health issues, to explore new opportunities, to travel or to pursue further education or certifications. These periods can provide valuable experiences and skills that enhance their professional growth.
Today’s dynamic job market often involves non-linear paths. Recognizing that gaps in employment don’t reflect poorly on personal abilities or dedication is important, and being prepared to address these gaps can make all the difference in a successful job search. Understanding how to effectively discuss these periods can help you confidently navigate interviews and demonstrate your ongoing commitment to professional growth.
To prepare for these conversations, consider the following resources:
- Reasons For Employment Gaps
- How to Explain Gaps in Employment
- Examples of Explaining Gaps in Employment
Reasons for Employment Gaps
Regardless of the reason, it’s important to be direct and honest when discussing a gap in employment with potential employers.
Here are some of the more common — and widely accepted — reasons for gaps in employment history:
Educational opportunities
Earning certifications or degrees during employment gaps demonstrates a commitment to self-improvement and professional advancement. This proactive approach not only enhances your skill set but also signals to future employers your dedication to staying current and competitive in your field.
Personal health issues
Employers have become understanding — especially in a post-pandemic society — of the need to take care of personal health issues. This shift stems from not only prioritizing the importance of individual health and well-being, but also a widespread reassessment of work-life balance and flexibility.
Caregiver responsibilities
The need to step in and care for loved ones can be sudden and may become more demanding over time depending on the circumstances. During these periods, it is widely accepted as a valid employment gap, recognizing the importance of family caregiving duties alongside professional commitments.
Traveling/sabbatical
Taking a sabbatical—a period of extended leave from regular employment to pursue personal or professional interests such as further education, research or travel—offers opportunities for personal growth, cultural enrichment and broadening perspectives. These experiences can enhance your professional resume by demonstrating adaptability, global awareness and a commitment to personal development.
Relocation
Relocating involves numerous complexities, from establishing connections to managing logistical challenges. Once settled, individuals are typically eager to re-enter the workforce with renewed focus and adaptability.
Pursuing a new opportunity
Taking time off to pursue a new opportunity allows individuals to explore new passions, gain relevant skills and align professional paths with their true interests and values. This can lead to a more fulfilling and purpose-driven professional career.
In between contracts
Gaps in employment often occur between the end of one contract and the start of another. These periods can be used to reflect on recent experiences, upskill and strategically seek out new opportunities. Successfully navigating these transitions showcases your ability to manage change and your proactive approach to career advancement.
How to Explain Gaps in Employment
Explaining a gap in employment is a common concern for job seekers. By framing the gap positively and emphasizing the valuable experiences and skills gained during that time, professionals can display their adaptability and readiness to re-enter the workforce. Here are some important things to keep in mind:
- Be honest and forthcoming about employment gaps and allow interviewers to ask follow-up questions. It’s natural for a gap in employment to stand out in the application process, but with an honest and thorough conversation, it doesn’t have to be off-putting.
- Include any relevant experience gained during the gaps by highlighting the positives. This demonstrates resilience, adaptability and a proactive approach to personal and professional development.
- Emphasize if the gap was voluntary and not caused by firing or wrongdoing. This can help build credibility and reinforce your professional integrity.
- Explain the circumstances clearly by including relevant context and being direct and honest. This includes providing clear and concise details, while remaining appropriate and professional.
Examples of Explaining Gaps in Employment
Showcasing work history and skills to employers is typically done through a resume, cover letter and interview. Here’s how to approach addressing employment gaps for each:
Within a resume:
- 2018–2019: Intentional employment break to pursue advanced certifications in [insert industry here], enhancing expertise and staying current with industry trends. [include specific certifications]
- March 2022–October 2022: Stepped away from seeking employment to provide care for a family member during a health crisis. During this time, I was responsible for coordinating appointments and logistics, as well as basic day-to-day caretaking.
- 2012–2013: Volunteered with [insert organization here], during which time I leveraged skills in [insert skills here] while [insert work executed here].
Within a cover letter:
- “During my recent career transition, I took the opportunity to pursue advanced education in [insert industry here], completing a certification program to deepen my expertise. This deliberate pause enabled me to stay on top of industry advancements and hone my skills.”
- “Following a period of caregiving responsibilities for an elderly family member, I am now eager to re-enter the workforce with renewed enthusiasm and commitment. During my time as a caregiver, I remained engaged in industry-related activities including online courses and networking events in order to stay connected and informed.”
- “After relocating to a new city, I took the opportunity to immerse myself in volunteer work with local organizations, where I gained valuable insights into community dynamics and honed my leadership and communication skills. I am now excited to channel this experience into a meaningful role where I can contribute effectively and make a positive impact.”
During an interview:
- “I’d like to address the gap in my employment history from 2018 to 2019. During that time, I pursued a few professional development opportunities and completed two certificate programs.”
- “It was a decision that I thought about for several months before ultimately deciding it would benefit my career in the long run, despite needing to step away from pursuing professional opportunities.”
- “I know that this might be of interest to you, and I’m more than willing to answer any questions you might have.”
As a reminder, don’t forget to send a well-written thank you email within 24 hours of an interview.
FAQ Summary: How to Explain Gaps in Employment
When addressing gaps in employment, it’s important to approach each situation with honesty and positivity by highlighting the valuable experiences gained during those periods. Below is a brief recap and a few commonly asked questions around how to explain gaps in employment during the interview process.
Q: How should I explain an employment gap in an interview?
A: Be honest and straightforward about the reason for the gap. Emphasize any productive activities you engaged in during this time, such as further education, skill development or personal growth, and highlight how these experiences have prepared you to contribute effectively in your next role.
Q: What are some common reasons for employment gaps?
A: Common reasons include family caregiving responsibilities, pursuing further education or certifications, travel or sabbaticals and transitioning between contract positions. Each reason is valid and can be framed positively to showcase your growth during the gap.
Q: How can I address a long-term employment gap on my resume?
A: Use your resume to focus on skills and accomplishments rather than dates. Include any relevant activities or projects undertaken during the gap. In your cover letter or during interviews, briefly explain the gap and emphasize how you remained engaged in professional development.
For further guidance on acing your next interview and addressing employment gaps with confidence, check out Vaco’s comprehensive Candidate Interview Guide.
