Tips for talking about your resume gap

Worried about the gap in your resume from taking time out to live your life? Don’t be! Follow these tips to ensure gaps in your resume aren’t awkward or danced around.

Do not leave it off your resume.

Ignoring the break from paid employment is not the right option – never have a large time period unaccounted for.

Find the transferable skills you used during the time and talk about these.

Think about the transferable skills you have which are relevant to the role and how have you used those

List achievements during this time which are transferable.

In your time away from paid employment, you would have many achievements. Perhaps you volunteered at your childs school, or did an extra-curricula activity.

Include any volunteer roles during this time.

Volunteer roles can add huge value to your resume so really explain these and how you contributed.

Be prepared in an interview with how you will explain the gap and your motivation for returning to paid work

Being able to articulate why you are now ready to return is so important and you want to be able to convey your motivation to a hiring manager.

Think about using a different resume format (functional v. chronological)

Functional resumes can really give you the opportunity to highlight your competencies as opposed to the job roles so consider this format.

Stay positive.

Remember that other people in the organisation may have also had a career break – you are not alone.

Ensure your linkedin and resume align.

Address any gaps in paid employment on the same way on linkedin and in your resume. Companies will check both and you want to be consistent.

In your cover letter, think about briefly explaining the reason for your gap and then move on.

You want to focus more on your motivation to the role and the company.

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