Here's how you can navigate gaps in your social work experience during an interview.

1 Own Your Story

When discussing gaps in your social work experience, honesty is your best policy. You don't need to provide every minute detail, but be prepared to give a straightforward explanation. Perhaps you took time off for family, pursued further education, or explored a different career path. Whatever the reason, frame it positively, focusing on how the break has enriched your life and skill set. This shows self-awareness and the ability to reflect on your life experiences as growth opportunities.

2 Highlight Learning

Even if you weren't working in social work specifically, you likely gained transferable skills that can benefit your social work practice. Discuss any volunteer work, courses, or side projects you undertook during your time away from the field. Emphasize how these experiences have broadened your perspective, enhanced your empathy, or improved your problem-solving skills. This demonstrates a commitment to continuous learning and professional development, which are highly valued in social work.

3 Connect the Dots

It’s important to relate your non-social work experiences back to the core competencies of the profession. Draw parallels between the skills you've acquired and how they apply to social work. For example, if you worked in customer service, discuss how it improved your communication skills and crisis management abilities. By connecting the dots, you illustrate your understanding of the skills needed for social work and your readiness to apply them in a professional setting.

4 Project Confidence

Your attitude during the interview can make a significant difference. Approach the conversation about your experience gaps with confidence. Instead of apologizing for the time away from the field, use it as an opportunity to showcase your resilience and adaptability. Employers are looking for social workers who are not only skilled but also confident in their ability to handle the challenges that come with the job.

5 Plan Your Narrative

Before the interview, craft a coherent narrative that weaves together your experiences into a story that leads to the role you’re applying for. This means knowing how to succinctly explain your gaps in a way that highlights personal growth and professional readiness. Practicing your response can help you stay on point and avoid getting sidetracked during the interview. A well-thought-out narrative demonstrates intentionality in your career path.

6 Leverage References

If you have gaps in your social work experience, references can be particularly powerful. Choose references who can vouch for your character, work ethic, and any relevant experience during your time away from social work. They can help corroborate your narrative and reassure potential employers of your capabilities and suitability for the role. Ensure your references are informed about the nature of the job you're applying for so they can provide relevant insights.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?