6 Tips on Explaining Employment Gaps on Your Resume

career advice from our no fluff, quick-read series

Employment gaps on your resume can raise questions from potential employers and make it more difficult to secure a job. However, with the right approach, you can explain your employment gaps in a way that showcases your strengths and makes you a more attractive candidate. Here are some tips for explaining employment gaps on your resume:

Be honest

If you took time off to care for a family member or for personal reasons, be honest about the reason for your employment gap. Employers appreciate transparency and honesty, and it will help to put their mind at ease.

Highlight relevant skills and experiences

If you took a break from work to travel, volunteer, or pursue other interests, be sure to highlight the skills and experiences you gained during that time. This will show employers that you were using your time productively and that you have valuable skills and experiences to offer.

Focus on your most recent experience

If you have an extended employment gap, focus on your most recent experience and limit the number of years you go back in your work history. This will help to emphasize your current skills and expertise and reduce the emphasis on your employment gap.

Use a functional resume format

If you have multiple employment gaps, consider using a functional resume format. This type of resume focuses on your skills and experiences rather than your employment history, and can help to minimize the emphasis on your employment gaps.

Be prepared to explain your gap in an interview

If you are invited to an interview, be prepared to explain your employment gap. Be confident and positive in your explanation, and emphasize the skills and experiences you gained during that time.

Show that you are eager to work

Let your enthusiasm for work shine through in your resume and in your interactions with potential employers. Show that you are eager to get back to work and contribute to the success of the company.

By following these tips, you can explain your employment gap in a way that showcases your strengths and makes you a more attractive candidate. Remember that an employment gap is just one aspect of your experience, and that your skills and experiences are what matter most to potential employers.