The importance of explaining gaps in your CV
Picture this: your CV, full of relevant skills, tonnes of experience, perfect grades / certifications, and intriguing hobbies / interests. Sounds great, right? But something is missing… there is a gap in your line of work on your CV for a couple months or years. Having a gap is completely fine, as long as there is a reason for it and that you address it. Maybe you went back to study, travelled the world, became a full-time parent, or just had a longer-than-imagined job-hunting period. Explaining gaps in your CV and at other stages in the job search process, in the right way, is important for impressing potential employers and standing out over your competition.
When applying for jobs, employers are likely to pick up on this gap in your CV and will want to know why there is one. It isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but a chance to provide some understanding to it and transferable skills gained. However, it can be tricky knowing how to address an employment gap on your CV, as it can be awkward, or you may feel embarrassed being out of work. So, here is our advice on how best to explain gaps in employment and talk about them when job searching.
Be honest – fully explain the gap
Be honest. Don’t try to hide or obscure gaps, as most employers will notice them during the initial application and interview process. Instead, address them head-on by explaining the reason behind the gap. Whether it was for personal development, family responsibilities, travel, or health reasons, being transparent shows integrity and builds trust. Frame it positively, outlining what you learned during this gap or how you stayed productive.
Transferable skills - Reframe the Career Gap Positively
Consider what you have learnt during your career gap? Focus on what you did during that time rather than the gap itself. Have you upskilled? Highlight any relevant skills, experiences, or personal growth you gained.
For example, mention if you:
- Took courses or earned certifications.
- Engaged in freelance or volunteer work.
- Focused on personal projects or caregiving responsibilities.
Also, show how skills gained during the gap are relevant to the job. For example, time management, creativity, problem-solving and communication.
Practice explaining the gap for Job Interviews
Before going in for an interview, it’s important to practice how you’re going to explain a gap in your CV. It’s important that you are confident in explaining gaps in your CV during a job interview. You don’t need to memorise word for word what you want to say. But having an idea of how you want to go about will be helpful, so it doesn’t look like you are making up excuses on the spot. For example, know how you being a full-time parent for a year gives you skills for the workplace – organisation, resilience, etc…
Example Answer:
“During that time, I took a step back to focus on [specific activity, e.g., caregiving, upskilling, or personal projects]. It allowed me to gain [specific skills or insights], and I am now eager to apply these to my professional career.”
Use References and Recommendations
Acquiring strong references from previous employers or colleagues can reassure potential employers about your abilities. References about your performance in a workplace will give unique insights into your skills and provide confidence to the hiring employer that you can do the job.
Use a functional CV
If your career gap is large, instead of explaining gaps in your CV, consider using a functional rather than a chronological CV to highlight your skills over specific dates.
A functional CV is an effective way to address gaps in employment by emphasising skills, achievements, and experiences rather than focusing on a chronological work history. This format organises information by categories, such as technical expertise, leadership abilities, or project accomplishments. Allowing jobseekers to showcase their qualifications in a way that aligns with the role they are applying for. By highlighting transferable skills and achievements, a functional CV draws attention away from periods of unemployment, focusing instead on the value you would bring to the position. This approach is particularly useful for individuals returning to the workforce, changing careers, or dealing with inconsistent job histories.
A tailored summary and relevant accomplishments help create a positive impression while downplaying gaps. However, it is still important to display your work history, as hiring employers want to see that you have practical work experience in relevant companies.
Leverage your networks
Did you volunteer or do a project during this time in which you made professional connections that can help you in the future? Explain these connections. Perhaps they could bring you business in your next job or maybe they mentored you during your time off work.
Address the Gap Directly in Your Cover Letter
If the hiring employer requests a cover letter for the job, briefly mention the gap and what you did during that period, especially if it is recent. Focus on how the experience aligns with the job you are applying for.
Remember: Most employers understand that career gaps are common and often unavoidable. Focus on presenting yourself as a strong candidate for the role. Be confident when explaining gaps in your CV, as what you did or learnt during an employment gap can often give you a competitive edge.
For more tips on preparing your CV, click here to view our guide on CV writing, with top tips from our 90 years of combined experience working in recruitment.
CV Support from the Eventus Recruitment Group
At Eventus Recruitment we are specialist recruiters in Law, Finance and Financial Services. For professionals within these sectors we offer support with CV writing and guidance at each stage of the job search process. Contact us for a confidential discussion about your CV and job search. Alternatively, to view our latest job opportunities click here.
