Blog Post - Navigating a resume gap

Introduction

In today's dynamic employment landscape, it is not uncommon for individuals to experience a resume gap. Life happens, redundancies occur, loved ones get ill and need care, finding a new job can take time, or sometimes we need a few months (or longer) to focus on self-care and recharging. Resume gaps are common; thankfully, gone are the days when they were viewed negatively or implied unreliability. 

However, a recruiter or hiring manager will likely ask you about your resume gap, so how do you handle this discussion? A professional and concise answer will assist in advancing your application within the recruitment process.

It is essential to address gaps strategically to present yourself as a well-rounded and valuable candidate. In this blog post, we'll guide you through practical ways to handle resume gaps and maximise your chances of landing that dream job.

There are many reasons why an individual may end up with a gap (or gaps) on their resume; these may include: 

• Health 

• Family 

• Career/ industry change 

• Study/ personal development 

Be transparent

No matter the reason for the gap, the key is to be honest and transparent. Instead of attempting to conceal the gap, acknowledge it openly and briefly in your cover letter and resume. Use a straightforward approach to explain the reason for the gap, whether for personal development, caregiving responsibilities, or a career pivot. Being transparent demonstrates integrity and sets a positive tone for further discussions during the interview.

Address the gap in your cover letter 

If the application calls for a cover letter, this is an excellent opportunity to pre-empt and address the resume gap directly. Use this opportunity to emphasise how the gap has positively influenced your career journey. Discuss any courses, certifications, or relevant experiences you gained during the break, illustrating your dedication to continuous professional development.

Highlight freelance work (if applicable)

If applicable, highlight any freelance or contract work undertaken during the gap period. Emphasise any projects you managed, skills acquired, and positive outcomes achieved. This demonstrates your commitment to staying active in your field and showcases your ability to adapt and thrive in diverse work environments.

A Recruiters view 

If you are seeking work through a recruitment agency, your consultant is almost guaranteed to ask you about your resume gap. If you haven't prepared an answer at this point, that’s ok. There are many reasons a recruiter would want to explore that time, including: 

• To see if you dedicated time to acquiring a new skill that they can highlight.

• To confirm that you are in a good space to take on a new role.

• Knowing that their client is likely to inquire about this, they want to provide a confident response, positioning you as an exceptional candidate.

Practical examples

Below are some practical examples of how you can address a resume gap 

​​Career Break for Family Care (MM/YYYY - MM/YYYY)

During this period, I took a voluntary career break to focus on raising and caring for my children. This break enhanced my organisational and multitasking skills, and I am now eager to re-enter the workforce with renewed dedication and valuable experiences.

Health-Related Sabbatical (MM/YYYY - MM/YYYY)

During this timeframe, I took a sabbatical from my professional pursuits to address and prioritise a health-related matter. This period has allowed me to focus on my well-being, resilience, determination, and appreciation for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. I am now in a fantastic space health-wise and looking forward to pursuing my professional goals and career. 

Family Care Leave (MM/YYYY - MM/YYYY)

During this time, I took a voluntary career break to provide care and support for a sick family member. This experience has enhanced my communication, empathy, and organisational skills, and I am now eager to bring these qualities back to the workforce.

Professional Development Period (MM/YYYY - MM/YYYY)

Following a period of redundancy, I dedicated time to strategic professional development and job search. During this interval, I engaged in [mention any relevant activities such as networking events, online courses, or volunteer work] to stay current in my field. This proactive approach allowed me to refine my skills and insights, and I am now excited to leverage this enhanced knowledge in my next role.

Industry Transition (MM/YYYY - MM/YYYY)

I intentionally took time off during this period to explore and transition into a new industry. Motivated by a strong desire to expand my skills and knowledge, I engaged in [mention any relevant activities such as coursework, certifications, or networking events] to gain insights into the nuances of [new industry]. This experience has equipped me with a fresh perspective and a diverse skill set that I am eager to apply in a new professional capacity.

In conclusion

Addressing resume gaps requires a strategic and honest approach. At Complete Recruitment Solutions, we believe every career journey is unique, and resume gaps are simply part of the professional narrative. By being transparent, focusing on skill development, and leveraging networking opportunities, you can navigate resume gaps successfully and present yourself as a resilient and valuable candidate in today's competitive job market. Remember, your journey defines you, and embracing it can set you apart in the eyes of potential employers.