Having gaps or periods of unemployment in your work history is common, especially in today's dynamic job market. However, these resume gaps can raise questions for potential employers about what you were doing during that time. Here are some tips on how to handle employment gaps on your resume:
Be Upfront
Don't try to cover up or hide periods where you weren't working. Employers will likely notice gaps in your employment history, so it's better to address them directly rather than have the employer wondering what happened.
You can include a brief explanation of major gaps right on your resume. For example, you could write something like:
"Sabbatical, Jan 2019 - March 2020: Took time off to travel and pursue personal interests."
Focus on Skills/Accomplishments
Draw attention to your skills, achievements, and qualifications instead of specific dates of employment. Emphasize your value as an employee and the assets you bring to the table. Use your resume summary or skills section to showcase relevant competencies.
Account For All Time
Make sure there are no puzzling holes in your timeline. If you have significant gaps between jobs, account for that time somehow - whether it was time spent as a stay-at-home parent, student, volunteer, freelancer, etc.
Describe those activities or pursuits briefly to fill in the timeline. This demonstrates that you weren't actually "unemployed" but rather pursuing other meaningful activities.
Be Positive
Avoid using negative explanations for employment gaps like "laid off" or "company downsizing." Instead, maintain a positive tone by focusing on how you used the time productively. Talk about the new skills you learned independently or classes you took to advance your education.
Prepare Your Interview Answers
Know that gaps in your resume will likely come up in the interview process. Anticipate questions about why you left or re-entered the workforce when you did and how you stayed relevant in your industry during those intervals. Have clear, concise answers ready to address employment gaps gracefully.
Handling resume gaps effectively is all about revealing the complete picture of your employment timeline, skills, and experience. With a combination of brevity, transparency, and positive framing, you can proactively address any questions or assumptions about resume gaps. The key is turning gaps into an advantage rather than a disadvantage in pursuing exciting new job opportunities.