Your CV may contain gaps for a variety of reasons. You may have spent time away from work caring for children, studying, traveling, caring for a relative, or looking for a job. In addition to redundancy, career gaps can also be caused by other factors.
In fact, these gaps are likely to become more and more common. why? Many people are continuing to work for longer – perhaps as long as the 70s and 80s – due to the increase in life expectancy. This trend may lead to a greater number of non-linear career paths, and therefore more gaps in our CVs.
If you have such gaps, how can you explain them to an interviewer in a way that sells you as a candidate, rather than sending employers running?
If you have gaps in your CV, what to do
I want to share some general principles you should remember before looking at seven of the most common resume gaps and how to explain them during a job interview:
Write a well-structured response. Describe briefly why you were unemployed during that time, then what you did, and then emphasize why you think this is the right opportunity for you.
The key to demonstrating that you've been productive and proactive during your time away from the workplace is to demonstrate that you did something worthwhile during your time away. You should mention what you've learned, as well as what you've done on the side, such as consulting, studying, or volunteering.
Put more effort into describing how you spent your time and why this is the right position for you, rather than going into specifics about the reason for the gap.
Answer honestly and openly, without going into unnecessary detail.
Take a break or have a gap and do not apologize for it.
How to explain CV gaps during an interview based on the seven most common reasons
I have listed a few of the most common reasons for gaps in a Résumé, along with some example answers you could give:
1. As a result of illness, I was unable to work
There is no need to provide specific details about the illness
How have you spent your time - have you acquired new skills, for example, or kept up with industry news and trends, or volunteered in your community?
Emphasize why you believe the position you've applied for is a good fit for you, showing that you are ready to return to work
Example answer: The recurrent health issues I experienced prevented me from following
through my career plan, I am ready to take on this role after I recover from my previous
role. My job allows me to travel. use my skills, fit my values, and make a positive
contribution every
day."
2. I was caring for a relative
There is no need to go into detail about the illness or your responsibilities as a caregiver
Tell the relative you now have more support available or that their condition has improved
Explain why you are ready to return to work and why you are excited about the role
Example answer: A family member's illness forced me to leave my former job. Since last year
has done this. Since my siblings and I hired a full-time caregiver, I have resumed my job
search. My goal was to find a position with an innovative company that will allow me to use
my existing skills as a team leader, and I thought this opportunity was perfect."
3. I was made redundant from my previous job
Explain briefly why your previous role was eliminated - for example, budget cuts or restructuring
Provide examples of strong performance or accomplishments during your previous job
Explain how you've spent your time away from the office, and why you think the position you've applied for is a good fit for you
Example answer: During the time I worked for my previous employer, budget cuts were
made, as a result of which my position was made redundant.". I had been a credit manager in
my previous position, I achieved a lot. During my time off from work, I have taken the time
to really think about what I want from. In the process of preparing for my next role, I've been
proactive about staying abreast of developments Several industries are involved. Worked
with a team as an existing manager, helping to drive the business forward.
4. I went on vacation
Explain your motivation for traveling, highlighting your desire for personal growth, for increased cultural awareness, and for opening new horizons
Tell the employer that you're ready to begin working again
Describe why this opportunity particularly excites you
5. I'm in search of employment
Describe how you have been actively seeking a new job
Make it clear that you have taken the time to really consider what you are looking for in a new role and new employer
Show how you have upskilled and maintained your knowledge of industry trends during the time you spent in college
Explain why you believe this role is right for you - you're seeking the right role, not just any role
6. My children needed me to take a break
Explain that you prioritized your family and took care of your children during this time
Take note of your enthusiasm for going back to work, as well as why you are now ready for it
Explain why you believe this position is right for you
Example Answer: After I left my last position, I had to prioritize my family and raising my son. After taking time off to grow professionally and personally, I am eager to return to work.
7. I re-entered education
Describe the reasons why you decided to go back to schools, such as the skills you wished to develop or the qualification you wanted to earn
Demonstrate your commitment to personal growth and express your belief that your skills would be useful in this position
Example Answer: The decision to return to education was made to upskill me and future-proof my career. I identified that I had a skills gap, so I returned to school. I am eager to put my new skills to use now that I have completed the course. When I came across this position, I thought it could be a good match and one I could provide real value and expertise to."
It's okay to have gaps on your resume. Your career gaps shouldn't concern an interviewer or make you feel that you need to avoid them. Your potential employer will always question gaps in your CV, so be confident and honest when answering, giving concrete examples of how you've used your time outside of work and why you're so passionate about the position.
