Having a career break on your CV is far from uncommon.
But even though so many of us have gaps in our employment histories – for all sorts of different reasons, it can sometimes feel difficult to know how to address them when writing up our CVs.
We asked our expert team of CV volunteers for some tips on how to present them.
How to address employment gaps
Be honest and open:
Don’t feel embarrassed about CV gaps or try to hide them.
Whether the reasons for the gap are personal (e.g. health, bereavement, caring) or professional (redundancy, taking time to find a new role or time spent training or studying), there are many positive reasons for a career gap. In fact, hiring managers may even have similar gaps of their own in their employment histories!
Summarise the reasons:
Briefly explain the cause of the gap, concisely and positively – a short sentence is enough.
For example, you could say something like:
“I took a four-year gap from employment to focus on childcare, but now my child is at nursery I am searching for part-time work.”
“I was made redundant after working at [Employer] and I am now looking for a change of role.”
Include any work (even if it’s not related to the jobs you’re hoping to apply for in the future):
If you did part-time, voluntary, or temporary jobs during the gap, include them. It shows you’re committed, have used your time productively, and have probably developed various transferable skills to strengthen employment gaps.
Highlight learning and growth:
Mention any skills you developed during your employment gap. Perhaps you did some volunteering or online courses which gave you new skills, interests or perspectives. You may have developed practical experience of budgeting from managing household finances or developed networking skills if you’ve been involved with your local community.
You could even mention relevant hobbies you took up during your time away from work.
Be prepared to discuss gaps at interview
Employers may ask about the gap in interviews, so be ready to discuss it confidently and positively. Remember, explaining career breaks in a CV is no reason to feel ashamed.
Note: If you have had time out due to a health issue or disability, you may wish to state this briefly – however you do not have to provide details, and it is illegal for employers to ask you for details of this in an application (read more about workplace discrimination). You can find more specific guidance on this from disability charity, Scope.
Overcoming CV gaps confidently
Remember, you’re not alone in having gaps on your CV. Being proactive, positive and honest about explaining them is key to moving forward and landing your next role.
If you want more support with CVs, cover letters and job applications, why not sign up to our CV Feedback service?
