How to Explain a Gap in Employment

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By CM Herold
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Explain a Gap in Employment

Many people are concerned about explaining a gap in their employment history on resumes and during interviews. Being laid off or unemployed for a period of time does not have the social stigma it used to have. Many people have taken breaks between jobs, and most people don't keep one job for their entire career. Employers are accustomed to this. If you're nervous about explaining a gap in employment, follow the steps below.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Be honest and succinct about explaining a gap in employment. Highlight the positive aspects of an employment gap, and move the conversation forward. For example, if you took time off to raise a family or took care of someone, simply state that you were a caregiver.
Step 2

Fill in the employment gap with other activities. It's appropriate to fill an employment gap with consulting, eduction, volunteering, or freelance writing about your profession on your resume just as you would any other job.
Step 3

If you were laid off, have not been working, and are asked about this during an interview, simply state you were laid off. Being laid off is more common than it was years ago, and most employers believe it has more to do with a bad economy than a character defect. Many employers know this and will not assume you were fired.
Step 4

If you have a gap in employment from over 15 years ago, don't put it on your resume. It's common practice for people to list only the past ten to 15 years of experience on their resumes.
Step 5

If you were only out of work for a few months, just list the years instead of the months and years on your resume. For example, instead of listing June 2004 to February 2008, list 2004 - 2008.
Step 6

Don't let explaining being unemployed for a while make you so nervous that you undervalue your abilities for the position. Keep a mental note of your positive qualities especially during a job interview.
Step 7

Practice in front of a mirror or with a friend how you plan to explain a gap in employment question. Memorize a short response, and make sure to respond in a matter-of-fact manner.