cover letter for employment gap

Written Samples

10 sample cover letters explaining gap in employment.

In the contemporary job market, gaps in employment are not uncommon. However, effectively explaining these gaps in cover letters remains a challenge for many job seekers.

Whether the gap is due to personal reasons, educational pursuits, or unforeseen circumstances, it’s crucial to address it in a way that is both honest and professional. This article provides ten sample cover letters, each tailored to different situations and reasons for employment gaps.

Sample Cover Letters Explaining Gap in Employment

These samples aim to guide and inspire job seekers in crafting their own compelling cover letters that transparently and effectively communicate their unique situations.

Sample 1: Personal Health Issue

Dear [Employer’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Where You Found the Job Posting]. My professional background in [Your Field/Industry], combined with my commitment to personal growth and development, makes me a strong candidate for this role.

I would like to address a gap in my employment from [Start Date] to [End Date], which occurred due to a personal health issue. During this period, I focused on my health and recovery, ensuring that I could return to the workforce with renewed vigor and dedication. This time away also allowed me to engage in various online courses and workshops related to [Your Field/Industry], keeping my skills and knowledge up-to-date.

I am now fully recovered and eager to bring my enhanced perspective and capabilities to your team. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my experience and skills will be beneficial to [Company Name].

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Sample 2: Family Care Responsibilities

I am excited to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. With a strong background in [Your Field/Industry] and a proven track record of [Specific Achievement or Skill], I am prepared to make a significant contribution to your team.

Before delving into my professional qualifications, I wish to clarify the gap in my employment history from [Start Date] to [End Date]. This period was dedicated to providing essential care for a family member undergoing a serious health challenge. While this was a time of personal commitment, it also afforded me the opportunity to develop valuable skills such as time management, empathy, and resilience, which I believe are beneficial in any professional setting.

Now that I am returning to the workforce, I am eager to apply these skills, along with my professional expertise, to the role of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. Thank you for considering my application.

Sample 3: Educational Pursuits

I am writing to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as listed on [Where You Found the Job Posting]. My background in [Your Field/Industry], along with my recent educational advancements, positions me as a strong candidate for this role.

I would like to highlight the gap in my employment from [Start Date] to [End Date], which was due to my decision to further my education in [Field of Study]. During this time, I completed [Degree or Certification] at [Institution Name], which has significantly enhanced my skills in [Specific Skills or Areas]. This academic pursuit was a strategic step to deepen my expertise and broaden my capabilities within [Your Field/Industry].

With my updated qualifications and renewed passion for [Your Field/Industry], I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name] and achieve [Specific Company Goals or Projects].

Sample 4: Volunteering and Travel

I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to apply for the [Job Title] role at [Company Name]. My experience in [Your Field/Industry], coupled with my commitment to personal and professional growth, makes me an ideal candidate for this position.

I would like to address the gap in my employment from [Start Date] to [End Date]. During this time, I engaged in a combination of volunteering and travel. My volunteer work with [Organization Name] in [Location] allowed me to develop [Specific Skills or Experiences], while traveling provided me with a broader world view and an appreciation for diverse cultures and practices. These experiences have enriched my professional abilities, particularly in areas such as [Relevant Skills or Perspectives].

I am now eager to apply these enriched skills and perspectives to the role of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. Thank you for considering my application.

Sample 5: Starting a Business

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. My extensive experience in [Your Field/Industry] and my entrepreneurial background make me a unique and valuable candidate for this role.

I wish to explain the gap in my employment history from [Start Date] to [End Date], during which I pursued an entrepreneurial venture by starting my own business in [Industry/Field]. This experience was immensely valuable, equipping me with skills in [List Relevant Skills, e.g., leadership, financial management, strategic planning]. While the business eventually closed, the lessons learned and skills acquired are directly applicable to the [Job Title] role at [Company Name].

I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to bring my unique blend of traditional employment experience and entrepreneurial spirit to your team. Thank you for considering my application.

Sample 6: Mental Health Break

I am interested in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] and am excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills and experience in [Your Field/Industry] to your esteemed organization.

In the spirit of transparency, I would like to address the gap in my employment from [Start Date] to [End Date]. This period was a necessary mental health break, allowing me to focus on personal well-being and self-improvement. During this time, I engaged in activities that enhanced my professional competencies, such as [List Activities or Skills Developed, e.g., online courses, volunteer work].

Fully rejuvenated, I am now eager to re-enter the workforce and apply my refreshed perspective and skills to the role of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. Thank you for considering my application.

Sample 7: Pursuing a Personal Project

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. With a solid background in [Your Field/Industry] and a passion for continuous learning and development, I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively to your team.

I would like to bring to your attention the gap in my employment from [Start Date] to [End Date]. During this period, I dedicated myself to a personal project in [Describe Project or Area]. This project not only honed my skills in [Specific Skills], but also provided me with a deeper understanding of [Relevant Industry/Area Knowledge]. The experience has equipped me with unique insights and competencies that I am excited to bring to the [Job Title] role at [Company Name].

I appreciate your consideration of my application and look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my unique experiences can benefit your organization.

Sample 8: Dealing with a Personal Loss

I am applying for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], confident that my professional experience in [Your Field/Industry] aligns well with the demands of this role.

I would like to address a gap in my employment history, which occurred from [Start Date] to [End Date]. This period was marked by a significant personal loss, which necessitated time away from work to focus on personal matters and healing. Throughout this challenging time, I maintained my commitment to professional development by engaging in [List Any Relevant Activities, e.g., part-time courses, freelance projects].

As I return to full-time employment, I bring not only my professional expertise but also a renewed sense of resilience and emotional intelligence. I am eager to apply these qualities to the [Job Title] role at [Company Name].

Sample 9: Career Transition

I am excited to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. With a diverse background in [Previous Field/Industry] and now transitioning into [New Field/Industry], I bring a unique perspective that can add substantial value to your team.

I would like to explain the gap in my employment from [Start Date] to [End Date], which was a strategic career transition phase. During this time, I focused on upskilling and retraining for [New Field/Industry] through [List Training, Courses, or Certifications]. This deliberate move was aimed at aligning my career with my passions and strengths, and I am now well-equipped with [List Newly Acquired Skills or Knowledge] relevant to the [Job Title] role.

I am enthusiastic about bringing my combination of experience and new skills to [Company Name] and contributing to your success.

Sample 10: Sabbatical for Personal Growth

I am eager to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. My extensive experience in [Your Field/Industry], coupled with my recent sabbatical for personal growth, positions me well for this exciting opportunity.

I would like to discuss the gap in my employment from [Start Date] to [End Date], which was a purposeful sabbatical devoted to personal growth and exploration. This time allowed me to engage in activities such as [List Activities, e.g., volunteering, travel, studying], each of which has contributed significantly to my personal and professional development. These experiences have enhanced my abilities in areas such as [List Relevant Skills or Qualities, e.g., cross-cultural communication, adaptability, creative problem-solving].

I am now ready to re-enter the workforce with a refreshed perspective and a wealth of new ideas that I am excited to apply in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. My unique journey during this period has provided me with invaluable insights and skills that I am eager to bring to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to [Company Name] and achieving new heights together.

In summary, when explaining gaps in employment in cover letters, it’s important to focus on the positive aspects of what you learned or how you grew during that time. Whether it was personal development, acquiring new skills, or overcoming challenges, these experiences can be valuable in the workplace.

The key is to communicate this effectively and professionally, as demonstrated in the samples above. Remember, every gap in employment is an opportunity to showcase resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning and improvement.

An Example Cover Letter Explaining a Gap in Employment

When you are applying for jobs, hiring managers will always notice gaps in employment. They’ll understandably wonder what happened. Are you at high risk of quitting? Have you experienced performance issues or exhibited irresponsible behavior in the past? 

It’s very important that you don’t ignore or gloss over an employment gap. The best way is to deal with it is honesty. And the best place to do this is in your cover letter. The tips below will explain how to address common scenarios where you may have a gap in your employment, both good and bad. Keep reading, there’s also a sample cover letter explaining a gap in employment.

How Long is Too Long of an Employment Gap?

There’s no “unacceptable” length for an employment gap per se as there are many valid reasons why you have been out of the workforce for a year — continuing education, raising a family, or dealing with an illness. Most HRs will view a 1-5 year gap in employment as a reasonable break. But longer gaps, think 5+ years, will likely warrant a more detailed explanation in your cover letter. 

How Do You Explain a Gap in Employment in a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is meant to complement your resume — highlight your strengths, showcase your motivation, and address some of the shortcomings such as an employment gap. The best place to clarify the gap in employment is the body of your cover letter. Think second or third paragraph. 

Here’s a sample cover letter structure you may want to go for:

• Introduction: Hook the reader with your motivation and key qualifications.  
• Second paragraph: Reiterate the main skill or experience you are bringing to the table.
• Third: Briefly address your employment gap and state why you are eager to get back on track. 
• Conclusion. End on a high note. Mention the value you can bring to the company or speak about your passion for the job at hand. 

Now let’s look at greater depth on how you can turn the above outline into a persuasive cover letter explaining the gaps in employment!

Be Direct When a Gap in Employment is Objectively Positive

Some gaps in employment are positive things. Even so, you still need to address them. Otherwise, a potential employer might make assumptions. Instead, take advantage of the opportunity to share something positive. Address your gap directly if you are a homemaker returning to work , received a fellowship to pursue an academic interest, taken a hiatus to do volunteer work, or worked on an independent project. Not only will this clear up any misunderstandings, but it could also be a positive addition to your application packet.

Some Gaps Can Be Ignored

Before you spend time worrying about an employment gap, ask yourself if you need to address the issue at all. For example, if you have five or more years of steady employment history, there’s no need to bring up a gap in employment before that. Likewise, you don’t need to mention gaps in employment that occurred while you were a college student. You can also ignore any gap that is less than six months. 

Finally, job hopping can be a problem, but it is not the same as having an employment gap. How you handle job-hopping really depends on the industry, and what you were doing at the time. For example, some fields like retail , hospitality, customer service , etc, tend to have a quick turnover, and employment periods tend to be shorter.

Add The Gap in The Closing Paragraph as a Power Move

If you can put a positive spin on a gap in employment, especially a recent one, add it to your closing paragraph. You can use the gap to tell prospective employers that you are now ready to move forward and do great things in your career.

For example, imagine that you are returning to work after studying for a year. You could close your cover letter by writing:

‘I was fortunate enough to spend the past year studying Organizational Psychology at Boston University. I am now ready to take the skills I have acquired and apply them as your new manager of human resources. I would love to meet with you to discuss your needs.’

Never Give Too Much Information

Remember that you are not obligated to share all of the details about a negative gap in employment. Keep in mind that a previous employer is likely to be pretty tight-lipped about a negative relationship with you unless it is something they are legally obligated to disclose. While you shouldn’t lie, you don’t have to go into great detail. 

For example, don’t go into detail about an ongoing personality conflict with a previous employer that culminated in a heated argument, and resulted in damaging your reputation on the local business scene. Instead, simply mention a difference in opinion or conflicting working styles that led to your decision to rethink your career options.

Employment Gap Cover Letter Sample in .docx Format

Download example (Word version)

Example Cover Letter Explaining a Gap in Employment – Text Format

Dear Ms. Wilkerson, 

I am writing this letter to apply for the position of General Manager of your San Diego restaurant division. I have ten years of restaurant management experience, before that, I worked in both fronts of the house and back of house positions in the fine-dining space on the west coast. I believe the experience I have closely mirrors what you need in a GM.

As someone who works in the food-service industry, I have a passion for catering people. That passion extends beyond providing delicious food to the customers who come into my venus. Because of this, I recently took a year-long hiatus to help create nutritional programs for schools in developing nations. In addition to being privileged to help others, I learned quite a bit about reducing food waste and working within a very stringent budget. I know that I can turn those skills into cost savings for any restaurant that I manage.

I am ready to jump back into the game and restart my career as a restaurant manager. I am confident that I am the perfect person to lead your restaurants in the San Diego area. Let’s meet to discuss this further!

Thanks for your time,

Jeffrey Ninja

How To Address a Gap in Employment? More Examples!

Still not sure how to compose the right narrative? Here are several quick snippets you can use in your cover letter:

Explaining a Gap in Employment Due to Family 

For the past three years, I’ve been serving as a Resident Home Educator, to my two kids, aged 6 and 9. While I’ve been out of my original career lane as a Communications Manager, I still practiced and developed my skills. Homeschooling my children have helped me improve my presentational skills and research skills. I’m now an expert in breaking down complex concepts into engaging short narratives and feel that this ability will help me find success in a new role as an Editorial Strategist with your firm. 

Explaining a Gap in Employment Due to Mental Illness

After successfully completing the $50 million M&A deal at my previous consulting firm, I decided to take a year off to restore my mental health. This time has also helped me reflect on my priorities and re-evaluate my career path, leading me to the idea of transitioning to a non-profit sector. I believe Charity Quest can greatly benefit from my past financial advisory experience to ensure better P&L management and cash flow. 

Explaining a Gap in Employment Due to Covid-19

I greatly enjoyed working at Nightime Lounge, where I served as a chief mixologist for the past 1.5 years and a half. The restaurant manager, James Welsh, can provide further reference on my performance. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, I was furloughed. However, I used my free time to create a YouTube channel and short cocktail mixology course with several signature recipes. You can review both on my website. 

How Do You Explain Gap Year in Cover Letter?

The easiest way to bring up your gap year is by briefly explaining what you did and what skills or experiences you’ve obtained along your journey. Don’t talk about the fun travel you did or lounge time you had. Instead, focus on the vocations, interests, and perhaps extra education that you’ve pursued along the way. 

Here’s a quick example of how to address a gap year in your cover letter:

“After completing my BS degree in Biology at Denver State University, I chose to take a gap year to reflect on my studies and determine which career path may work best for me. During that time, I volunteered with the West Coast Marine Savers and my experience lead me to discover my passion for water conservation. When I noticed an opening at your firm, I was excited to jump at the opportunity for applying.”

How to Explain Gaps in Employment Due to Disability?

Becoming temporary or permanently disabled can have a severe mental toll on you, which is understandable. But don’t let your doubts or negative emotions get into the way of your job search. Instead of treating (and thus speaking about) your disability as a weakness, merely acknowledge it as one of the facts. Then move on to highlighting some of your other strengths. 

Here’s a quick example of how you can address disability in your cover letter:

“ Two years ago, I got into a bad car accident and was left disabled for the following 1.5 months. Today, I have fully recovered mentally, yet still, have some difficulties walking. However, my condition in no way affects my ability to create user-friendly website designs and, specifically, material design applications.”

Final Tip: Keep it Brief, Yet Direct

Don’t make the mistake of drawing more attention to gaps in your employment than you need to. Your cover letter should focus on your skills, passions, and fit for the job. If you spend more than a couple of sentences over-explaining a gap in your work history, that’s going to be problematic. Be brief and matter of fact.

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Explaining gaps in employment can be intimidating, but there are a couple of effective methods you can use. In this article, I’m going to show you how to explain employment gaps in your interviews, resume and cover letter … with word-for-word examples and sample explanations.

Let’s get started with the interview first…

Explaining Gaps In Employment In Your Interview

Explaining gaps in employment is really just about knowing what reasons are okay to share, and which ones you should tell a white lie about or not share. And then being upfront and comfortable with your answer.

These are all good sample reasons for having a gap in employment:

• Caring for a sick family member
• Caring for a young child
• Any medical or health issue
• Taking time off to relocate and find a job in a new state/city
• Pursuing further education or going back to school
• Pursuing any other type of professional training
• Taking time off to travel, study, work on a solo project, etc.
• Trying to start a business or freelance career
• You were laid off , your former company downsized, etc… and you had trouble finding a job after
• You were actively searching but had trouble finding a job (NOTE: I’ll cover this in detail later but you need to make it sound like you were being selective in your job search and waiting to find the RIGHT fit. That sounds a *lot* better than saying, “I was looking everywhere but couldn’t find a single company that would consider hiring me!”

Once you have your reason prepared… Here are the general steps to follow when explaining gaps in employment in the interview: 

• Explain the situation clearly but briefly. They don’t need a ton of personal details. Just give them the core facts.
• Show that the situation has ended or is no longer a factor, so they won’t be worried you’ll have to take another break from working. If they hire you, they want to know you’re 100% ready to work for them.
• Reiterate your interest in their position and bring the focus back onto this job interview and this position.

Examples Of How To Explain Employment Gaps In An Interview:

Sample explanation 1:

I had to resign from my previous position to care for an aging family member. I did this for the past year. Since then, my siblings and I have hired a full-time caregiver so I no longer need to be present, and am fully available to work now and in the future. So I’ve begun job searching and I’m focused on finding a sales supervisor or manager position that will help me advance my career further now.

Sample explanation 2:

I was laid off nine months ago. I started my job search immediately after, and I’m looking for sales supervisor or sales manager positions now to continue advancing my career. I’ve had a number of interviews but haven’t found the right fit yet. One thing I’m looking for is a chance to mentor and train team members, and manage a team directly. I saw that mentioned on the job description for this position… can you tell me more about that?

Two Things To Remember When Answering:

1. You need to sound like an in-demand job candidate…

If you’re explaining a current gap in employment, you need to sound like you’re being selective and that you’re focused on making sure you find the best fit for the long term, rather than just accepting the first job you come across. That’ll make a 6 month gap (or longer) sound a bit better. If you’ve been job hunting during your employment gap, you don’t want it to sound like you haven’t had a single interview in the last few months. That’s never a good idea. If your gap in employment is related to health, travel, a family member’s health, etc…. then it’s fine to say you haven’t had any interviews.

2. Be upfront and honest…

Gaps in employment happen, and good hiring managers will realize this. If you’ve made it into the interview, there’s obviously something they liked on your resume . So when it comes to explaining gaps in employment it’s best to be honest and upfront.

You probably won’t lose out on the job by explaining the situation. You will definitely lose out on the job by lying or seeming like you’re trying to cover something up.

Explaining Gaps In Employment On Your Resume

Okay, maybe you’re still writing your resume or having trouble getting interviews. How do you explain gaps in your employment on your resume so you can GET interviews in the first place?

Here are a few ways you can explain (or hide) gaps in employment:

• List years instead of months for previous positions. (e.g. “2014-2016”). I’ve used this method in the past when I had a couple of small gaps between jobs (by a small gap, I mean 2-3 months maximum). This won’t work if you have too many gaps though, or gaps longer than one year.
• If your gaps are longer or more frequent, consider providing a brief note on the resume listing your reason for the gap in employment. Just list it like any other job. Put your previous positions with the dates you held them. And for your gap, you’d have dates there too, and a one-line explanation (“I took a hiatus from work in order to care for an elderly family member in need”).

If you use these strategies, consider going onto LinkedIn and making the same changes there too. If these options don’t work for you, write a cover letter ! This is a good idea no matter what. In your cover letter, explain what happened in detail and draw their attention to the gap so that you can tell them the full story instead of allowing them to make assumptions (you’re usually better off attacking controversial topics head-on).

That’s how I’d explain gaps in employment on a resume. Also, nobody can tell you with 100% certainty what will work in your industry, with the specific circumstances of your gap in employment (dates, length, reason for the gap, etc.)

So TEST things out. Send out 10 resumes one way, and if nobody’s responding, change something up. If it’s not working, you can’t just keep doing the same things on auto-pilot. That’s how you end up not finding a job .

It’s usually better to be upfront than hide employment gaps

I always give the same resume advice to candidates with gaps in their work history: Be straightforward rather than trying to hide dates or other pieces of information. Hiring managers are usually going to be able to tell if you’re hiding something. Your resume should feature a chronological work history on the first page that includes job titles, company names, key responsibilities for each role, and yes… dates of employment.

No matter what you do, there are some employers out there who won’t like the fact that you have a gap in your employment. That’s okay… Companies like that aren’t worth your time. We’re human. Things happen. And there’s more to life than working nonstop for 40 years. So don’t get discouraged if a few companies say they’re not interested, or just don’t respond. I guarantee those are the same companies you do NOT want to work for anyway because they’re going to have horrible vacation policies, bosses who question you every time you take a sick day, etc.

Note: These Tips and Sample Explanations Will Also Work on Job Applications

Sometimes a job application will say, “please explain any gaps in employment.” The advice resume advice above also work for job applications. Follow the same “rules”, be clear and upfront, and you’ll be fine when applying for jobs.

The one adjustment I’d recommend making on job applications (and cover letters): Be clear and direct, but don’t give too much information. The only goal of your job application is to get you into the interview. If they’re concerned about employment gaps, they can ask more in the interview. And that’s where you should be very honest/open and explain things further. That’s where you can gauge their reactions, decide how much to share based on their responses, etc. You can’t do this in a written explanation.

So, by writing too much info on a job application, you might do more harm than good. It’s better to discuss this type of thing in person, so  limit your explanation to 1-2 sentences for each gap in employment on your job applications, cover letters, etc. 

Final Advice on How to Explain Gaps in Employment:

Don’t be apologetic about your work history. Taking time off is not something to be ashamed of. Not every company will want to interview you, but some will. Stand by your decisions and choices, present your skills with a straightforward (chronological) resume format , and be ready to answer questions and explain yourself further in the job interview.

Related reading:

• What to do when you can’t find a job in your field
• How to answer “Why did you leave your last job?”

About the Author

Read more articles by Biron Clark

20 thoughts on “How to Explain Gaps in Employment (With Examples)”

Monster’s report The Future of Work 2021 has shown that the employment gap is no longer considered a red flag by almost half of employers in the US. That’s a piece of good news because it indicates that the marketplace is becoming more tolerant of deviance in the workforce.

However, it doesn’t mean that the black holes on your career record will be overlooked. Rather, they will be carefully examined and objectively evaluated so that the right candidates are not going to slip through the cracks just because of an obsolete prejudice.

I’m in the same situation, was an IT contractor for a number of years, then jobs fell away after year 2000 work had finished, and employers would no longer consider me for permanent jobs due to the fact i’d been a contractor, I guess they assumed I’d just leave when the market picked up!

Long story short, mortgage to pay, no income, had to sell my house and downsize to a flat, and then used that to go into property development with friends which has now finished, and now trying to go back to my original career of software development, seems like an uphill impossible task at the moment, but glad to read your advice even if my “career break” is 18 years!

I’ve done a lot of similar temporary jobs, but had several months gap in the middle of them nearly everytime. I’ve had dozens of interviews everytime, always get them easily. Struggle with the interviews though because I have Aspergers’. When I have been successful with that before as soon as I’ve mentioned my Epilepsy I have very mildly too, several places have changed their minds then, stopped me. I keep getting asked more + more now why I’ve got so many long employment gaps, how am I supposed to answer that in a positive way?

I thought it was interesting that you didn’t list caring for young children as a valid reason for a gap in employment. Your tips were still helpful to me, though.

Good point. That’s also a valid reason (and a common one).

Thank you for posting this, I have a ton of different jobs and gaps because being a ex pipe welder I went where the work was, most of the world does not get it. Life is a roller coaster companies will be booming for a couple years then dead as a door nail. This write up really has helped me not to make my crazy work history look so crazy.

Why don´t you just say Sabbatical ? Regardless how long the gap was it provides a plausible explanation and each one fill out with their own reasons…

i have gap of 9 month due to my previous company boss is horrible ,its very much difficulty to survive, so i had reign and taken break of six month ,from last 3 month i have given interview but its not happening so what i suppose to give reason for gap. can you explain can you explain.

Thanks for the nice article. But I am looking for more the answers of where to write this gaps explanations in our cv. My current CV sections are sunsequently like, Experiences, Educations, Technical skills and language skills, Certifications. So I have currently two 6 months gap in my CV. First one was before I started to my current job. I learned german, So I was in intensive german course. Other 6 months is after my last job. And I was preparing for the some certification exams through self study and online courses. So the question, to which section should I write this gap explanations. Thanks a lot for the answers

If you’re explaining a gap in employment, you should write it in your employment history. You should have a section with your chronological work history. I know other people recommend a “Functional” resume and all sorts of other stuff to hide gaps but in my experience, it doesn’t work. You should be listing each previous role and job duties in chronological order, with the dates. (You can choose to show months and years, or just years). And then you can put something to explain gaps of employment right in that section of your resume.

Thanks Biron Clark for the answer. As I understood you right you adviced me to write my gap explanations directly to work experiences section even though they are not work experience actually. Correct me if I understood wrong. But what about writing them to directly their own section. For example I have a section in the second page of my CV which is “language skills” So I have here just written english (business fluent), german (business fluent). Can I put that times combining near it. like below English (business fluent) German (business fluent), MM/YYYY – MM/YYYY German Course…..

or are you still offering me to write in employment history? Thanks for the ideas

I haven’t yet found the situation that applies to me, for good reason – I had taken a leave of absence to pursue a master’s degree. My mother had been ill with cancer, and was in remission, and I had the opportunity, so I went. Before I was able to complete my thesis, the cancer returned, and she died. I was devastated, and needed to take time away from teaching, because I couldn’t give students what they needed. So, though I had found another job teaching, I wasn’t able to do it, and they released me from my contract. I had only taught for a couple of weeks. After a year, I decided that I needed a longer break, and I obtained my real estate broker’s license. Since that time, I have sold real estate, although I have also been a substitute teacher – one year, I subbed the entire year with another teacher. We split the position. It saved the district money, since they didn’t have to pay benefits with two half-time teachers. The year after, I taught half days for several weeks for a teacher with a bad back problem, and I’ve subbed occasionally since then. Now, I want to go back to teaching. I’m ready now. My grief over the death of my mother is complicated, and it really devasted me. I needed the time away from teaching, because it requires everything you have to give, and I needed time to heal. I have 19 years’ experience as a teacher, and I’ve accomplished some things I’m very proud of. I am now applying for teaching positions, and I need a way to explain the past 5.5 years away from teaching full-time without sounding maudlin, or whiny.

This was really handy, thank you.

Hello! I have been unemployed for 9 months. I left my company where i had worked for 4 years to take another offer. Unfortunatey, I did leave this new position afte over 1 month. The main reason is that it doesn’t fit with me as I had thought of it. I don’t know how to explain my employmen gap for the past 9 months positively. I feel very uncomfortable and hopeless.

“You were laid off, your former company downsized, etc… and you had trouble finding a job after”

That’s pretty much why I’m not employed for now. And yet no one wants to even interview me.

I have periods of “good” jobs I would be happy to include on my resume followed by low-level jobs that would get my resume tossed. These cycles correlate to how well I have been able to deal with my depression. I have been leaving those lower-level jobs off my resume and trying to explain away the gaps instead without referring to depression as an issue that has surfaced more than once. I feel fine at the moment, but this is a big problem moving forward.

I would really like advice on how to deal with this situation without lying or oversharing!

Hello, I totally agree with Kero. Indeed, there is more to life than working nonstop for 40 years. I appreciate for your article, now I feel more confident.

Hi !! I just want to say thank you for providing this article and share it with all of us . Im out of job for almost 2 years already despite had a good career background but after continue searching there is no luck so far . Im really touched by the last part of this “So don’t get discouraged if a few companies say they’re not interested, or just don’t respond. I guarantee those are the same companies you do NOT want to work for anyway because they’re going to have horrible vacation policies, bosses who question you every time you take a sick day, etc.” …The moment I read that I burst into tear. So thank you again to at least cheer me up and have hope again .

Thanks for taking the time to write this. I’m really happy to hear this helped you.

Comments are closed.

Employment Gap on a Resume - 13 Simple Ways to Explain It

Employment gaps are not uncommon, yet they’re quite scary. Mainly, that’s because recruiters assume the worst when they see them on a resume. 

In most cases, however, employment gaps are nothing to be scared of. There can be many justifiable reasons why someone has an employment gap, from going back to school and deciding to travel to taking time and caring for their growing children. 

So what we’re getting to here is this: employment gaps are not a big deal, as long as you know how to explain them well on your resume

To learn how to explain an employment gap on a resume, we’ve put together this guide for you. Here’s what we’ll cover:

13 Best Ways to Explain Employment Gaps

• Good Reasons for an Employment Gap

Sample Resume with Employment Gap

And more! So let’s dive right in! 

During your job hunt , you’ll have three separate chances to explain an employment gap:

• On your resume
• On your cover letter
• During your interview

To best convey the employment gap (and reasons behind it), you’ll need to touch on it in all 3. So below, we’ll explain the best way to explain an employment gap on your resume, cover letter, and during an interview:

6 Ways to Explain an Employment Gap on Your Resume

#1. be honest .

Your resume is the first thing that recruiters check, so it’s crucial that you’re honest! 

After all, you don’t want to omit a two-year-long employment gap from your resume, for example, only to have it be revealed during your interview. 

As such, it’s super important that you’re honest about your employment history - or lack thereof - right there on your resume. 

What’s important here is to understand that potential employers will find out about your employment gap - especially if it was a lengthy or recent one. As such, trying to hide it will only damage your application and give recruiters even more reason to believe you have something to hide. 

And, if you’re feeling anxious about it, remember that recruiters are also humans and will probably be understanding if you are straightforward about your employment gap - and about what caused it! 

#2. Remove the Employment Gap (If It’s Outdated)

Here’s some good news: if your employment gap is old, you can safely omit it from your resume entirely.

Say, for example, your employment gap is from 10 years ago. Chances are - especially if you’re a seasoned professional - that you won’t even be including jobs from 10 years ago on your resume. After all, you want your resume to be as relevant as possible (and stay within the recommended 1-page resume length). 

As such, it’s totally OK to omit employment gaps that stretch long before your recent employment history (or that are quite short, like 6-month-old employment gaps while you were between jobs). 

#3. Explain the Gap

When it comes to resumes, simply writing down the dates of your employment gap won’t cut it - it would only leave things open to recruiters’ interpretation. 

Take the following example:

Work Experience

Digital Marketer  Airfield Baumax  02/2012 - 04/2015

Marketing Assistant  Walmart 05/2007 - 07/2009 

The only thing that this candidate makes clear to recruiters is that he was not working for a 3-year period. Apart from that, recruiters have no way of knowing whether the employment gap was due to a valid reason or because the candidate decided to be a couch potato for some years.

This is why it’s better to actually write out the exact reason for the employment gap in-between your work experience entries.

Here’s an example that does it right:

07/2009 - 01/2012

From September 2009 to January 2012, I backpacked through Europe and East Asia. This had long been a goal of mine to achieve before turning 30.

#4. Take Advantage of a Different Resume Layout

If your employment gap is longer than just a few short months, you could benefit from using a different resume layout altogether. 

For example, the functional resume format and the combination format put more emphasis on your skills and competencies rather than on your work experience, which is a great way to shift focus from your employment gap. 

That said, taking advantage of a different resume layout does not mean you should omit the employment gap from your resume altogether . Lying is never the right way to go here, and will always end badly for you (even if you manage to get the job).

#5. Use Your Time Away Effectively 

If you’re suddenly in between jobs and are worried about how this will reflect on your future job applications, get proactive! 

Instead of simply explaining your future employment gap as a “career break” or “job searching,” start a personal project and create something more valuable to put on your resume. 

For instance, you can join one or more online courses related to your profession while you’re on a break from work, or start that project you always wanted to work on but never had the chance to! 

That way, you’ll have much more to talk about than simply stating you were looking for jobs or taking a self-discovery break and you’ll be effectively showing recruiters that you’re constantly growing - even outside the office!

#6.  Show That You Never Stopped Learning 

Highlighting your skills and acquired knowledge is also a great way to cover past employment gaps. Sure, you might’ve not been working, but you could’ve still been working on developing yourself as a professional or individual.

You could, for example, mention something like this on your resume to address your employment gap:

06/2012 - 09/2013

Took a year off my career to focus on personal and professional development. Over the duration of the year, I managed to:

• Start my own marketing blog.
• Read 20+ books about digital marketing.
• Attended 5+ networking events.

3 Ways to Explain Employment Gaps in Cover Letters

Want to go more in-depth into your employment gap? Your cover letter is your chance to do so. 

Unlike your resume, which barely leaves you 2-3 sentences worth of space to explain yourself, you can be way more comprehensive in your cover letter . 

Specifically, you can use the body of your cover letter to give more details about your employment gap.

Here are the best ways to do it:

• Give a valid explanation. The whole point of mentioning your employment gap on your cover letter is to justify it the best way you can. For example, if you had an accident, writing “took 1 year off work because of injury” won’t be as convincing as writing “took 1 year off work after a car accident that required me to do intense physiotherapy sessions to fully recover.” 
• Highlight new skills . Additionally, it’s super important to highlight any new skills acquired during your time off. The good thing about the cover letter is that you have a better chance of explaining the skills and what motivated you to acquire them (e.g. “due to organizational changes, I was laid off from my previous job. However, I used the time it took me to find a new job to catch up on industry-related trends and readings, get online certifications, and network with professionals in the field.”) 
• Don’t overshare. Last but not least, it’s important to know that just because you have more space on your cover letter it doesn’t mean you should overshare the details of your employment gap. If, for instance, you took a one-year break to deal with burnout , you don’t have to give too many details about how that went. So, instead of writing, “took a year off to recuperate from burnout, during which time I consulted 3 different therapists and several support groups,” you can just write “took one year off work to deal with work-related burnout and re-asses my professional goals.” If you think it’s important to share more information, talk about how you grew professionally not about what you went through personally. 

4 Ways to Explain Employment Gaps in Interviews 

If your resume and cover letter make a good impression, chances are you’ll be called for an interview. And, even if you have already explained your employment gap, there’s nothing keeping recruiters from asking you again about it. 

Here’s what you can do to address an employment gap during your interview effectively:

• Rehearse in advance. Your best bet is assuming that you will be asked about your employment gap. That way, you can take the time to prep your answer in advance and won’t be taken back if recruiters actually ask the questions during the interview . 
• DON’T badmouth your former employer. If your employment gap is due to getting fired, bashing your former employer won’t help you get a new position - if anything, it might make you look immature. Instead, try to highlight all the steps you took to bounce back from getting fired and show recruiters why you’re the ideal candidate for this position.
• Focus on what you did right. Now, if you lost your job unjustly (or due to reasons outside of your control), the way to make a great impression is to focus on how you were a stellar employee before the employment gap! That way, you can shift recruiters’ attention to your strengths, instead of simply telling them you lost your job and there wasn’t much you could do about it.
• Be confident. Sometimes, how you say things is just as important as what you say. If recruiters ask that you elaborate on your employment gap and you suddenly get super nervous about it, you’ll probably raise some serious red flags. So, make sure to polish your communication skills in advance and start your interview with a show of confidence. 

Here is an example of how you can address your employment gap during an interview:

Unfortunately, I lost my job due to cuts within the company. During the time I was looking for jobs, I took online courses to hone my skills, stayed updated with all industry trends and developments, and focused on my mental wellbeing. I am now in perfect shape to put all I learned into practice throughout my new endeavors. 

7 Good Reasons For an Employment Gap

There can be countless reasons behind an employment gap and, as long as it’s not related to something like, say, jail time, it shouldn’t hinder your chances of getting employed.

That said, here are some great examples of good reasons for an employment gap:

• Family reasons. Family is super important and most recruiters are guaranteed to be understanding if your employment gap is due to family-related issues. What’s important here is to show that whatever family reason you had for taking time off work, it’s over now (e.g. if you took time off to raise your kids, make a point explaining they’re all grown up and off to school now).
• Self-discovery. Did you take some time off work to redefine your life path and career choices? That’s totally OK - as long as you can convince recruiters that you now have your answers and won’t be leaving this job again after a year or two.
• Illness. Any illness you may have suffered that’s hindered you from working is a totally legitimate reason to explain your employment gap. Just make sure to mention you’re recovered and fully able to work.
• Injury. Just like with illnesses, injuries that render you incapable of work are perfectly fine reasons to explain an employment gap, so mention them without hesitation.
• Failed business or initiative. You may be hesitant to mention a failed startup or business initiative as the reason behind your employment gap, but there’s no reason to! If anything, it shows you have initiative and aren’t scared to act on it. So, as long as you show recruiters how you bounced back, you shouldn’t hide this valid reason.
• Burnout. The World Health Organization defines burnout as an occupational phenomenon that can take a serious toll on someone’s physical and mental health. As such, don’t hesitate to tell recruiters that you took some time off to improve your well-being after experiencing burnout in the workplace .
• Education. No one minds an employee who’s always looking to expand their knowledge, so if you took a break from work to get another degree, go ahead and mention that on your resume.

7 Other Resume Resources

Building a strong resume is hard enough without having to explain an employment gap. Struggling with other aspects of building a resume? Check out some of our top resources: 

• How to Write a Resume . The ULTIMATE beginner’s guide on how to make a resume in 2024. Includes tops of tips, resume examples, and more.
• Free Resume Templates . Want to avoid the hassle of formatting your resume from scratch? Just pick one of our 8 free resume templates and get started with your resume within minutes.
• Career Change Resume . Is your employment gap due to a career change? Learn how to write an awesome career change resume with these 9+ examples.
• What to Put on a Resume . Here are the most important sections to put on your resume and win the job.
• Resume Tips and Tricks . This article covers every single practical resume tip you’ll ever need to create a compelling CV.
• Essential Resume Skills . Want to stand out from other applicants? You’ll need to include the right skills on your resume. This article covers the most in-demand skills in 2024.
• Resume Examples . Struggling to write a resume for your field? This article covers resume examples for almost all popular roles in 2024, including jobs in IT, marketing, healthcare, and more.

FAQ on Employment Gaps 

Do you still have some questions on everything employment gap-related? Find your answers below!

#1. How long is too long of an employment gap?

Any employment gap on your resume that you can’t explain to recruiters can cast a shadow on your job application. 

That said, shorter periods of employment gaps (e.g. time between jobs, illness or injury recovery, etc.) are much more acceptable than, say, 3-year-long gaps in your recent work history. 

So, while there is no specific time limit for a super long employment gap, the longer it is, the harder it will be for recruiters to ignore it.

#2. Is an employment gap bad?

That entirely depends on the reason behind your employment gap. 

If your employment gap is due to illness, failed business, family emergency, and the like, then an employment gap is definitely not bad! All you need to do is be honest with the recruiters and prove that you’re a trustworthy employee. 

That said if your employment gap comes from less socially acceptable reasons, like serving time for a crime or being away in rehab, your employment gap will be more difficult to explain - and, in turn, can be more harmful to your job application.

#3. How do you explain a gap in employment due to being a stay-at-home parent?

Taking time off work to be a stay-at-home parent falls under family-related reasons for an employment gap. 

The best way to explain such an employment gap is to write down the exact period you were off, titling it as a “planned career break.” Underneath, you can include one or two sentences on why you took it (e.g. took three years off work to care for my growing children, who are now in elementary school). 

On top of that, you can also mention any personal projects or other work-related experiences you had over that period. For example, if you took some online classes or started a personal project, that’s a great way to inform recruiters that you weren’t completely idle during your employment gap.

#4. How do you explain a gap in employment due to COVID-19?

The COVID-19 pandemic cost 114 million people to lose their jobs over 2020. So, if you were infected and quarantined due to COVID-19 (or if you were unlucky and had more severe health issues due to the virus), then note that on your resume as an “illness-related employment gap” or simply due to COVID-19.  

In one or two sentences, you can explain you had to take a break from work due to COVID-19 and that you’re now fully recovered and ready to work again.

Similarly, if you were working for a business that got impacted due to COVID-19 (such as an airline company) you can, in one sentence, mention you were laid off due to the impact of the pandemic and mention what you did in the meanwhile to find a job or hone your skills. 

#5. Why do employers not like gaps in employment?

Employers don’t like gaps in employment when said gaps are due to criminality, abuse or addiction, or simple laziness. In such a case, employers assume you’re not a reliable employee and that you may demonstrate the same patterns of behavior while working for them.

On the other hand, if there is a reasonable explanation for your employment gap, employers won’t think twice about hiring you, as long as you’re a good fit for the job.

Key Takeaways 

And that’s a wrap! By now, you should know everything about employment gaps and how to tackle them so they don’t hurt your job application.

Before you go, here are the main points covered in this article:

• There are three places where you can explain an employment gap: on your resume, cover letter, and during your job interview. 
• To explain an employment gap on a resume, be honest, elaborate on the gap, show that you never stop learning, or use a different resume layout to remove the gap altogether. 
• Explain an employment gap on your cover letter by highlighting new skills and offering a valid explanation as to why you took it. 
• If you have to explain your employment gap during your interview, rehearse in advance, show confidence, and don’t badmouth your former employer. 
• Some valid reasons for an employment gap are family reasons, illnesses, and injuries, taking time to discover yourself or pursue your education, and even a failed business.

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• How to Explain Gaps in Employment (Resume & Cover Letter)
• Protected: Resume Help

Having gaps in your employment history can indeed feel daunting, but there’s no need to panic.

Whether you were raising children, pursuing further education, or exploring the world, there were likely valid reasons for your hiatus.

After consulting with three top career experts at EvalCommunity, it turns out that employment gaps aren’t as big of a red flag as you might think. Let’s delve into their advice on the best ways to explain these gaps.

This article is beneficial for:

• Resume Review
• Resume Writing
• Resume Optimization

EvalCommunity Member?

• Understanding why managers dislike employment gaps and learning effective strategies to explain them is crucial.
• Additionally, finding ways to navigate around these gaps in your resume can help you avoid crafting a subpar document.
• Moreover, discovering how to highlight the value gained during these gap periods can significantly enhance your appeal to employers.
• Finally, identifying valid reasons for employment gaps that managers are likely to empathize with can strengthen your candidacy.

Let’s explore these aspects further.

Navigating Employment Gaps: Strategies for Explanation

Employment gaps often carry a negative connotation because employers may speculate about what could be concealed within them.

Without providing explanations, hiring managers might conjure up worst-case scenarios, assuming the worst about your absence from the workforce.

Therefore, honesty is paramount in addressing these gaps. Orville Pierson emphasizes the importance of transparency, as employers’ imaginations can run wild when faced with unexplained lapses in employment history.

By candidly disclosing the reasons behind the gaps, you dispel any negative assumptions and alleviate concerns about what might have transpired during that time.

Here’s an example of how you could explain an employment gap on your resume:

March 2018 – June 2019

“During this period, I took a sabbatical to care for a close family member who was undergoing medical treatment. As their primary caregiver, I dedicated my time and energy to providing essential support and ensuring their well-being. While it was a challenging and emotionally demanding experience, I am grateful for the opportunity to have been there for my loved one during their time of need. As their condition stabilized and they regained their health, I am now eager to re-enter the workforce with renewed focus and dedication…”

This example illustrates how you can provide a brief but honest explanation for a gap in your employment history, addressing any potential concerns while emphasizing your commitment to your responsibilities and readiness to return to work.

Not Every Employment Gap Calls for Concern

It’s essential to maintain honesty about your employment history, but there’s no need to undermine your job search by disclosing details that could harm your prospects.

• When it comes to defining an employment gap, anything less than six months is generally considered acceptable. While you should still provide an explanation, simply stating “Job seeking” can suffice for shorter gaps.
• If your resume shows a gap that occurred 7-10 years ago, there’s no need to stress over it. While you may need to explain it if asked, older gaps are typically not viewed as serious concerns by employers.
• Additionally, it’s important to differentiate between employment gaps and job hopping.

While leaving a job in less than a year isn’t ideal, it’s worth noting that a significant portion of employers are willing to hire individuals who have changed jobs frequently.

Preparation Is Key

If you have a gap in your resume, it’s inevitable that it will come up during the hiring process. When it does, being unprepared is not an option. Instead, approach it like a seasoned professional, ready to address the issue with confidence.

Here’s how to handle explaining employment gaps effectively:

Explain the Reason: Be prepared to succinctly explain why you have gaps in your resume. Whether it was for personal reasons, professional development, or other circumstances, provide a brief and honest explanation.

Reassure the Hiring Manager: After explaining the gap, reassure the hiring manager that the circumstances leading to the gap are resolved and won’t recur. Offer assurances that you are fully committed to your career and ready to contribute effectively to the organization.

Share the Value: Highlight any valuable skills, experiences, or lessons learned during the gap period. Emphasize how these experiences have positively contributed to your professional development and make you a stronger candidate.

Keep it Concise: Keep your explanation short and to the point. Avoid rambling or going into unnecessary detail. Have a clear finish line to your explanation to avoid trailing off or becoming embarrassed.

Additionally, consider leveraging referrals to overcome gaps in your employment history. Building relationships with employees at your target companies can create advocates who can vouch for your qualifications and character.

Remember, being perceived as genuinely interested and engaged can go a long way in making a positive impression on potential employers. So, approach explaining gaps in your resume with confidence and professionalism.

Crafting a Robust Strategy for Addressing Employment Gaps

Picture yourself in an interview room, facing three hiring managers with a poster of an eagle that reads “Leadership” behind them.

Then comes the dreaded question: “What’s this gap in your employment history?”

Your ears start to feel hot. Did you mess up your resume?

How do you handle explaining employment gaps in an interview?

Demonstrate Your Continued Reliability

Employers fear that hiring someone with a gap in their employment history might lead to a bad hire, which can cost the company anywhere from $50,000 to $100,000.

The concern is that if you’ve had one gap, you might have another.

For instance, if you had a gap due to a car accident, it’s essential to assure the hiring manager that the issue is completely resolved.

Otherwise, they may question your ability to fully engage in work responsibilities.

Uncover the Benefits

If you spent your employment gap pursuing skiing or ski instruction, don’t worry—it’s considered a reputable part-time job, according to our expert.

Similarly, being a stay-at-home mom is also respected work.

For instance, one of EvalCommunity’s experts added value to her resume by volunteering at a church, where she managed a team of 30 volunteers.

This experience demonstrated real managerial skills and was a valuable addition to her resume.

Look for Relevant Achievements In:

• Volunteer Work
• Freelancing
• Part Time Work
• Challenges You Faced

Align Your Employment Gap with the Job Requirements

Your explanation for employment gaps should demonstrate that you were not idle during that time.

However, connecting these gaps to the job you’re applying for is particularly impressive.

For example, if you were a ski bum who also instructed skiing, this experience aligns well with jobs that require training skills, effective communication, or experience working with children.

This strategic alignment between your past experiences and the job requirements showcases your suitability for the role.

The Key Strategy Is…

Carefully review the job listing to identify the specific qualities and skills the employer is seeking.

Next, analyze your employment gap to uncover achievements or experiences that demonstrate you possess those desired qualities.

By aligning your past experiences with the job requirements, you can effectively showcase your suitability for the position.

Minimize Your Employment Gap Today

According to our expertise, the most effective approach is to prevent gaps in employment from occurring in the first place.

As soon as you find yourself unemployed, consider engaging in consulting or volunteering activities.

While it’s advantageous if these opportunities are related to your primary skills, any type of work can provide you with valuable experience, skills, and references.

By staying active in the workforce, you can maintain momentum in your career and minimize the impact of potential gaps on your resume.

Consider a Cover Letter

Do I need a cover letter  if I’ve got gaps in my resume?

Some experts say yes.

For instance, consider this brief sample cover letter addressing a gap in employment. It emphasizes that the gap will not recur and highlights a relevant achievement.

“I am writing to express my interest in the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) position at your organization. During a recent career break, I seized the opportunity to deepen my understanding of international development by volunteering with local NGOs in various countries. This hands-on experience enhanced my analytical skills and honed my ability to collect and interpret data effectively. I am now eager to bring this expertise to your team and contribute to your organization’s impactful projects. My commitment to excellence and passion for M&E make me a strong candidate for this role…”

However, our expert advises against relying solely on cover letters to explain gaps in employment. Instead, he suggests leveraging your resume to showcase your ability to generate revenue, reduce costs, and enhance efficiency, thereby demonstrating your value to potential employers.

• Google search a company you want to work at + department name + “resume” + “-apply”.
• Click the images tab. You’ll see resumes from people who worked there.
• Contact some of them and have a chat. You’ll get a great sense of the issues in that department.
• Map those issues against your past accomplishments and put them in your resume.

Our expert suggests that if you use this targeted approach with 12 or 20 companies, you’ll likely secure interviews with at least seven of them.

As for the gap in your resume, by the time you’ve implemented this targeted strategy, the hiring manager is likely to overlook it.

Still reading? Take a Pause and let’s optimize your resume for a better career. Try Our FREE Resume Scanner!

Optimize your resume for ATS with formatting, keywords, and quantified experience.

• Compare job description keywords with your resume.
• Tailor your resume to match as many keywords as possible.
• Grab the recruiter’s attention with a standout resume.

Four Good Reasons for Employment Gaps

Here are some compelling reasons for employment gaps, along with explanations of how you won’t repeat them:

Pursued further education

I took time off to pursue additional education, enhancing my skills and knowledge. I am now fully committed to applying this newfound expertise in my career.

Cared for a family member

I dedicated myself to providing care for a family member in need. While this was a significant responsibility, the circumstances have changed, and I am now ready to fully focus on my career.

Travelled for personal growth

I embarked on a journey of personal growth and exploration, which allowed me to gain valuable insights and experiences. I have returned with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to my professional endeavors.

Volunteered for a cause

I dedicated time to volunteer work, contributing to meaningful causes and making a positive impact in my community. Now, I am eager to channel that same passion and dedication into my career.

Key Takeaway

Here’s a recap of how to explain gaps in employment so they don’t torpedo your job search:

• Be honest when explaining employment gaps to dispel negative assumptions and reassure hiring managers.
• Avoid volunteering unnecessary details that could harm your job search.
• Shorter gaps (less than six months) generally require less explanation, while older gaps (7-10 years ago) are less concerning.
• Job hopping, though not ideal, is often tolerated by employers if you can demonstrate value and commitment.
• Prepare to explain employment gaps in interviews by addressing the reason, reassuring the hiring manager, and highlighting the value gained.
• Link your gap experiences to the job offer and emphasize relevant achievements to enhance your candidacy.
• Prevent gaps by engaging in consulting or volunteering activities related to your skills.
• Use your resume to showcase value rather than relying solely on cover letters to explain gaps.
• Targeted job search strategies can lead to interview success despite employment gaps.
• Valid reasons for gaps, like education pursuits or caregiving responsibilities, can strengthen your candidacy when explained effectively.

Do you need guidance on addressing employment gaps in your resume? Unsure about highlighting your achievements effectively? Feel free to reach out in the comments! Let’s work together to help you land your dream job.

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How to Write a Cover Letter that addresses Career Gaps & Job Hops Effectively

Welcome to the world of Career twists & turns, where job changes are as common as your morning coffee! 

Crafting a cover letter is a skill that can make ALL THE DIFFERENCE. 

Many of us grapple with the puzzle of career gaps & job hops, but fear not! A well-crafted cover letter is your secret sauce to tackle these twists & turns.  

How to Craft a Compelling Introduction?  

The first impression is everything & your  Cover Letter's  introduction sets the tone.  

Begin by expressing genuine  enthusiasm  for the position, highlighting key skills & showcasing a keen interest in contributing to the prospective employer's success.  

Avoid getting into the career history immediately; instead, aim to captivate the reader's attention & build anticipation. 

How to Navigate a Career Gap?  

One of the most common concerns job seekers face is ‘how to explain a career gap in a cover letter?’.  

It is essential to address this transparently & positively. Rather than shying away from the topic, use it as an opportunity to showcase personal growth,  acquired  skills, or any relevant experiences during the gap.  

“Throughout my professional break (2020-2021), I engaged in numerous freelance projects, upskilling in project management & remote collaboration. This period allowed me to delve into professional development courses, ensuring I stay abreast of industry trends & advancements." 

The Art of Explaining Job Hops 

Job hopping explanations are another critical aspect to master in your cover letter.  

Instead of viewing job changes as liabilities, talk about them as intentional career moves. Emphasize the skills acquired, accomplishments achieved & lessons learned at each stop. Demonstrate how these experiences align with the requirements of the  prospective  position. 

"In the course of my professional journey, I pursued varied roles to expand my skillset & immerse myself in different aspects of the industry. My job changes were thought through, strategic with an aim to identify cultural & value-based alignment; allowing me to bring multifaceted perspectives to your team." 

Navigating Job Hops with Confidence: Overcoming Uncertainty & Doubt 

Embracing job hops can be a transformative journey, yet uncertainties & doubts may arise. Learn effective strategies to navigate these challenges: 

Self-Reflection:  Assess your values, skills & passions to align your career with your personal goals. 

Goal Setting:  Define short & long-term career objectives to provide direction & purpose during transitions. 

Skill Development:  Identify gaps in your skillset & utilize job hops as opportunities for continuous learning & growth. 

Networking:  Build a strong professional network to gain insights, mentorship & support during uncertain times. 

Professional Coaching:  Leverage PaintMinds coaching services to receive personalized guidance, boosting confidence & clarity. 

Remember, job hops can be a catalyst to a fulfilling career when approached with intention & strategic planning. 

How to Strategically unveil your Employment History?  

Your employment history in the cover letter should be compelling.  

Avoid a mere listing of positions; instead, emphasize achievements, growth & how each role prepared you for the one you are pursuing.  

"My tenure at XYZ Corp taught me the art of adaptability, while my role at ABC Inc sharpened my leadership skills. These experiences collectively fuel my passion for contributing to your team & propelling the company forward." 

How to Tackle Career Gaps & Job Hops Simultaneously?

The key lies in seamlessly integrating your career gap jobs & job hops into the broader narrative.  

Ensure a natural flow in your cover letter, allowing the reader to understand the evolution of your career path. Highlight specific achievements & skills acquired during career gap jobs to underscore your continuous commitment to professional  development . 

"While navigating career gaps, I embraced freelancing opportunities, excelling in roles that demanded adaptability & self-motivation. These experiences, combined have built my ability to thrive in dynamic environments—a quality I am eager to bring to your team." 

Cover Letter Strategies 

Incorporate these cover letter strategies to optimize your chances of securing the desired position: 

Tailor Each Cover Letter:  Customize your cover letter for each application, aligning your experiences with the specific requirements of the role. 

Highlight Relevant Skills:  Emphasize skills acquired during career gaps & job hops that directly contribute to the prospective role. 

Quantify Achievements:  Use quantifiable metrics to showcase the impact you have made in previous positions, reinforcing your potential contributions. 

Express Enthusiasm:  Demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for the company & the role, illustrating how your unique journey aligns with their values & goals. 

In conclusion, a cover letter serves as a powerful tool to convey your professional story authentically.  

Be proud of your unique journey, highlight the skills gained,  lessons  learned & the valuable perspectives you bring to the table.  

Always remember that a well-crafted cover letter is your opportunity to shine, leaving a lasting impression on prospective employers. 

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We transform work lives

How to Address Employment Gaps in Your Cover Letter

By: Sean Fitzpatrick

Use your cover letter to explain the employment gaps in your work history and allay any concerns your potential employers may have about your readiness for the job.

If you’ve been in the workforce for a while, chances are you’ve probably experienced at least one employment gap in your work history. Legitimate events may have kept you out of the workforce for some time. You may have been laid off, experienced an illness, taken care of a family member, traveled, or changed careers.

If you have gaps in your employment history, your potential employers might have some questions about these gaps. Their skepticism is reasonable. Most employers would rather avoid candidates who seem to be “job hoppers” or who have a history of job loss due to poor performance. If you’ve spent some time on the sidelines, they’ll want to know why.

Use your cover letter to address the employment gaps that may show up in your resume. Here’s how.

Express your employment dates in years.

In your “work experience” section of your resume, list the start and end years only, not the months or days. This will spark fewer concerns that you’ll need to explain away.

Mention non-family-related gaps directly.

In your cover letter, directly address that gaps that you’re comfortable discussing. For example, if you left your job to start a business, but it never got off the ground, share this proudly. A bold move like this showcases your willingness to take risks and try new things. The same applies to overseas volunteering, artistic endeavors, and other career side-trips that might showcase your strengths as an employee.

Keep family-related gaps to yourself.

While you may openly address your professional gaps in employment, it’s best to keep your personal gaps to yourself. For example, if you left the workforce to raise your children, you don’t have to share this with anyone. In fact, the law protects you from employers who ask during an interview. In cases such as these, keep the conversation focused on your qualifications and skill sets.

Highlight your mid-life career shifts.

If your employment gaps took place when you decided to switch career paths, build your cover letter around this narrative. Explain the reasons behind your decision. Outline the details of your journey from one field to the next. If your new career involved any kind of study or training that took the place of full-time work, state this clearly. Again, be proud of the risks you’ve taken and the accomplishments you achieved by leaving the workplace for a while.

If you really were fired, be careful.

If you did leave the workforce for a while due to performance or unreliability, tread carefully. In this case, it’s best to refrain from mentioning your employment gap in your letter (and in your interview) until you’re directly asked about it. When that happens, be ready to shed a positive, diplomatic light on the incident and explain what you learned during the process.

For more on how to explain your work history to potential employers, rely on the tools and guidelines from LiveCareer .

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6 Ways to Address an Employment Gap on Your Resume

A seamless employment history is often considered the holy grail of a great resume. But, it is not uncommon to encounter employment gaps on resumes today. Regardless of the reason, these gaps create a sense of uncertainty for job seekers.

The good news is that addressing an employment gap in your resume doesn't have to be a roadblock to your career aspirations. In this article, we will explore effective ways to help you confidently navigate and overcome this hurdle.

1. Acknowledge the Gap With a Brief Explanation

One of the first steps in addressing an employment gap is to acknowledge it openly and honestly. Instead of leaving potential employers guessing about the gap, take the proactive approach of addressing it.

Employment gaps are generally categorized into two types: long-term and short-term. According to Statista , long-term unemployment counts for six months or more.

Long-term work gaps need more detailed explanations. For example, if you took a break to care for a family member, pursue education, or for any other reason. Ensure to explain why you took the time off and what you gained from the experience.

For short-term gaps, you can focus on the reason for the gap without going into excessive detail. For example, if you took time off to care for a family member, you can state, "Career break to provide caregiving support to a family member."

While explaining the gap, shift the focus to positive outcomes or experiences gained during that time. For instance, if you volunteered for community work, discuss how it shaped your character and work ethic.

2. Use a Different Resume Format

While the traditional chronological format works well for many job seekers, it may not be the best choice if you have an employment gap. Exploring other resume formats allows you to highlight your qualifications and shift the focus away from the gap.

One alternative format that you might consider is a functional resume. In functional format, your resume focuses on skills and areas of expertise instead of your work experience. You can find some free templates for functional resumes on Resume Genius and Resume.io .

Another option you can try is a hybrid resume. One of the advantages of making a hybrid resume is you can minimize your career gaps. As the name suggests, this format combines elements of both the chronological and functional formats. It can particularly work well as it allows you to draw attention to your relevant experience while demonstrating your skill set.

Further, thinking outside the box and opting for a unique format can showcase your creativity and innovative thinking. You can explore the best alternative resume formats to showcase your resume in creative ways.

3. Highlight Relevant Training or Education

If you pursued any training or education during your employment gap, highlight it on your resume. It helps showcase your commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.

Create a dedicated section on your resume highlighting relevant training and education. Mention the courses, workshops, certifications, or seminars you have completed and related to the job you are applying for.

Simply listing the courses you attended isn't enough. Take it further by describing the expertise you acquired through these educational experiences. For example, if you took a coding bootcamp during your employment gap, mention the programming languages you learned and any projects you worked on.

You can also consider a visual format that helps employers quickly grasp your qualifications. Consider creating a skills matrix or visual representation of your training and education. Use a chart or graphical format to showcase the different areas of expertise you have developed through your training.

4. Emphasize Transferable Skills

Even without formal employment, you probably must have gained valuable transferable skills from other activities or experiences. Transferable skills include project management, communication, leadership, problem-solving, and adaptability.

Demonstrating transferable skills on your resume can be relevant to potential employers. They are often interested in candidates who can bring a diverse set of skills to the table. Showcase these skills and their applicability to the position you are applying for.

Group your transferable skills into clusters to demonstrate your skills in various areas. Create subsections in your resume dedicated to specific skill sets. It could be leadership, project management, problem-solving, or any other skill. Under each cluster, list relevant examples that show how you've utilized those skills in different areas.

5. Leverage Personal Projects

Next, did you engage in any personal projects during your employment gap? Maybe you started a blog, created an online portfolio, or developed an app. Your independent endeavors can show employers what you're capable of.

You may want to include any noteworthy personal projects on your resume. When listing your personal projects on your resume, emphasize the skills you gained or used. For example, if you designed and developed a website, highlight your web design and development skills. You can also include your ability to manage a project, problem-solving, and communicate effectively.

Whenever possible, quantify the impact or results of your personal projects. Did your project gain a significant number of followers, receive positive feedback, or generate revenue? Did it solve a specific problem or address a need in the community? It helps employers understand the significance of your projects and the outcomes you achieved.

6. Elaborate on the Gap in Your Cover Letter

Your resume provides a concise overview of your qualifications. However, your cover letter can help you elaborate on your employment gap in a more personal and nuanced manner.

Explain why you took a break from work, why you want to work again, and what you've done to stay up-to-date. If you have not crafted a cover letter before and need a little help, here's how to write a cover letter .

After elaborating on the gap, bring the conversation back to the position you're applying for. Connect the skills or experiences you gained during the gap to the job requirements, demonstrating how you can make a positive impact.

Overcome the Employment Gap and Land Your Dream Job

Addressing an employment gap can certainly feel intimidating. However, ignoring it won't benefit your job search in the long run. Using the above-mentioned strategies, you can effectively address and minimize the impact of the gap. By presenting yourself as a qualified candidate, you can increase your chances of getting the job you want.