How to keep a break in employment from ruining your chances at getting the gig.
Simplifying your entire professional life down to a few resume lines can feel demoralizing, especially when you find yourself staring at a big gaping hole in between roles. But it’s incredibly common to experience one (or more) of the following breaks in employment:
- Personal or Family Responsibilities
- Health Issues
- Education
- Job Search
- Relocation
- Travel
- Freelancing or Consulting
- Layoffs or Company Closures
The folks reading your resume understand that all of these experiences are a part of life. We’ll even let you in on a little secret: Hiring managers are WAY more interested in a candidate's ability to execute a job effectively than confirming they’ve been able to find work each and every day of their life. What’s important is presenting these gaps as additive life experiences and not red flags. Here's how:
Be Honest
Trustworthiness is a trait everyone looks for in their staff. By being upfront and transparent about your period of unemployment, you’re initiating mutual respect between yourself and the organization which always makes you a more attractive candidate.
Focus on What You Learned
Be sure to highlight what your experience outside of the workforce has had on you as an employee. For example:
- Taking time off to raise children: How has becoming a parent shaped the way you attack projects? Prioritize? What have you learned about managing multiple responsibilities at once? Planning ahead?
- Left a job to relocate: What about this time away taught you about what you’re looking for in a career? Did the experience give you perspective on what you’re looking for in your next role?
There’s no wrong answer to what your takeaway is, as long as you are able to find one (or more) ways in which an experience made you a more valuable employee.
Emphasize What You Did to Stay Productive
If you used your time away from the rat race to gain new skills, volunteer, or freelance, be sure to mention it. Showing your ability to remain proactive without the framework of a job demonstrates discipline and a desire to learn - both great attributes! Here are a few examples:
- “After I was laid off, I did some volunteer work which taught me so much about time management and ways in which I can contribute to the greater good.
- "I took time off to travel and explore new cultures, which broadened my perspective and strengthened my adaptability—qualities I’m excited to bring to this role."
Keep it Brief
As tempting as it might be to share about your crazy six months backpacking through Europe, it’s best to loop the conversation back around to your excitement for the role.There’s no need to dwell on a gap, so once you’ve addressed it, move on.
Be Confident
There’s no reason to be ashamed of these openings in a resume. In fact, they’re a part of life. Don’t allow your interview to be defined by this one aspect of your life story. You’re an added value to any company, so act like it!