How to Write a Resume That Addresses Employment Gaps
Megan Applegate, CPC
Executive Resume Writer & Career Strategist | LinkedIn Profile Optimization | Executive Recruiter I Business Owner I 7x Forbes Winner I Helping Professionals Land Their Dream Job Fast I Book a Call Below ⬇️
Employment gaps happen. Whether due to personal circumstances, professional growth opportunities, or unexpected changes, they’re a common part of many career journeys. The key is to approach them with transparency, confidence, and purpose when writing your resume. Here are three essential strategies to showcase your career story effectively:
1. Be Transparent and Honest
The biggest mistake you can make? Trying to hide or lie about an employment gap. Recruiters and hiring managers will spot inconsistencies, and this could raise unnecessary red flags.
Instead, address gaps directly. Present them professionally and show that you’re not shying away from your history. For instance, if you stepped away due to a layoff or personal circumstances, briefly state the fact and focus on what’s next. Honesty reinforces trust, and trust is a critical element when pursuing a new role.
2. Explain the Reason Briefly and Positively
When addressing gaps, keep your explanation concise while shifting the focus to what you gained during that period. A few examples:
Family Leave: “Dedicated time to care for a family member while maintaining involvement in professional skill-building through webinars.”
Education: “Completed an intensive digital marketing certification program to upskill for evolving industry demands.”
Travel or Sabbatical: “Took a career sabbatical to explore personal growth opportunities, including cultural immersion and learning a second language.”
Health-Related Leave: “Focused on recovery and returned with a renewed perspective and drive.”
Layoffs/Company Closures: “Transition due to [specific event], during which I prioritized skill refinement and career alignment.”
The goal? Shift the narrative. Show that even during breaks, you were proactive and forward-thinking.
3. Highlight Activities and Skills Gained During the Gap
Use gaps to demonstrate growth. Even if you weren’t in formal employment, emphasize experiences that enhanced your skills or broadened your professional outlook. This could include:
Volunteering: “Volunteered as a project coordinator for [organization], enhancing my leadership and coordination skills.”
Professional Development: “Enrolled in advanced online courses, earning certifications in project management and analytics.”
Personal Projects: “Developed and maintained a [passion project], showcasing innovation and dedication.”
Family Responsibilities: “Organized and managed household operations, strengthening multitasking, budgeting, and organizational skills.”
By presenting these experiences as evidence of your resourcefulness and adaptability, you’ll demonstrate to recruiters that you view every phase of your life as a chance to grow.
Own Your Unique Career Journey
Employment gaps don’t define your career. How you frame and present them does. Remember, a compelling resume tells your story, highlighting your resilience, adaptability, and commitment to growth at every stage.
If you’re navigating recent or past career breaks, use these tips to craft a resume that’s honest, structured, and inspiring. With confidence in your unique qualities and a clear narrative, you’ll show recruiters why you’re the perfect fit for their team.
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