How to explain Career Gap in your resume in an interview

There are many reasons why someone may decide to take a break from work. But no matter what the reason is, knowing how to address these empty spaces on your CV can be a challenge – and failing to do so could even mean missing out on finding the perfect role for you.

The issue of gaps in employment history is a thorny one, and one that comes up all the time in terms of the overall picture your resume provides. When a candidate is applying for a job, a large unexplained gap in their employment history is sometimes a showstopper. And why is that?

Whether your resume gap is because of personal reasons or a massive lay-off, no matter what your reasons were, the most formidable question that candidates face during interviews is, “why the gap?”. There can be surplus of unavoidable situations that can force a person to gap employment or academic slots.

A gap in employment or academic studies can be a spike in your career profile. Learn to address the issue wisely. You will merely notice any downhill impression on your part.

Interviewers will want to know why there is a gap in your job history and what, if anything, you did during that time. Even if you feel awkward about your resume gap, shedding light on the situation will be better than simply leaving it to an employer’s imagination.

Be honest:

Employers can easily verify your career history, and lying about it can be grounds for dismissal if you do manage to get the job. You don’t want that hanging over your head.

You don’t have to go into everything in detail but leaving it out completely or lying about the reason will only make the gaps stand out further. If you haven’t been honest, you won’t fool them for too long.

Resist the temptation to lie about the dates on your resume. Your interviewer will be able to verify work history and will be able to find out whether the information you provided is true. It’s not worth the risk.

Be Positive:

No matter the reason for your resume gap you can almost always find some value in it. Instead of apologizing for your gaps, try and put a positive spin on them. Also, if taking a break wasn’t your decision, a bit of positivity can go a long way. Focus on what you learned from the experience and what steps you’ve taken to implement positive changes to your career to improve your overall performance.

The ability to convey a positive, confident, and trustworthy attitude will go a long way. Be prepared and be confident and that resume gap won’t hold you back. Be honest, and give your reply with a hint of optimism.

Sensible reasons as education for the gap:

Obviously, there are many different reasons for taking a career break, whether it’s by choice or not. Nothing can be more sensible than an educational takeout from a job. Impending job pressure on your education can potentially harm it. This leaves you with no option. You can confidently state the purpose of gap as education to your interviewers.

Remember, whatever your career break entailed, it’s all relative. So be honest – and always attempt to address the issue early, allowing the recruiter to concentrate on the rest of your CV. That way, you’ll have nothing to worry about. An employment gap is not a sin you committed. It is most natural in a professional career. Be confident, and learn how to handle it. Prepare enough before your interview day and make your interviewers believe in your worth and spirit.