How to Explain Gaps in Your Employment During an Interview
When you're sitting in an interview, and the person across from you asks about a gap in your work history, it can feel like the room just got a bit colder. You might start to worry, thinking this could be the moment that ruins your chance at the job.
But here's the thing: Gaps in employment are more common than you think, and they don't have to be a deal-breaker. The key is knowing how to talk about them. This post will guide you through the process of explaining these gaps in a way that feels honest and still shows you're the right person for the job. Let's dive in.
How to Explain Gaps in Your Employment During an Interview
If You Took Time Off for Personal Reasons
Whether it was to care for a family member, recover from an illness, or reassess your career goals, taking time off for personal reasons is a part of life, and it’s perfectly okay.
Keep your explanation honest but brief, focusing on the positive outcomes or what you learned during this time.
Sample Answer: "I took some time off to support a family member through a significant health challenge. This period required me to become highly organized and efficient, balancing caregiving responsibilities with managing household tasks. It honed my ability to prioritize effectively under pressure and adapt to changing circumstances quickly. These skills, I believe, are directly transferable to any professional setting, enhancing my capability to manage workloads and adapt to new challenges."
If You Were Pursuing Further Education or Training
Sometimes, the best step for your career is to step back and learn new skills or earn a degree, and this is perfectly okay.
A simple way to explain this in an interview is to talk about why you chose to further your education or training and how it makes you a stronger candidate for the job.
Sample Answer: "I decided to return to school to complete my Master's in Marketing, a decision driven by my commitment to advancing my career and contributing more effectively to my future employer. This experience not only deepened my expertise but also equipped me with the latest industry knowledge, making me a stronger candidate for this role."
Related: How to Answer "Why Did You Leave Your Last Job?" If You Quit Your Job
If You Were Laid Off or Left Your Previous Job Without Another Lined Up
Sometimes, changes in the job market or realizing a job isn't a good fit can lead to employment gaps.
While explaining this in an interview, avoid speaking negatively about your previous employer. Instead, focus on the positive steps you took during this period, such as resting, reassessing your career goals, or enhancing your skills.
Sample Answer: "After my position was eliminated due to restructuring, I chose to view it as an opportunity to pause and reflect on my career direction. During this time, I focused on my well-being and explored various fields within my industry to identify where my passion and skills could be best utilized. This break allowed me to come back more focused and with a clear vision of my career path."
Related: How to Answer "Why Did You Leave Your Last Job?" If You Were Fired
If You Took Time Off to Travel or Pursue a Passion Project
A break for travel or a passion project can be a powerful testament to your initiative. It's a unique chance to step out of your comfort zone, learn new skills, and gain fresh perspectives that can be incredibly beneficial in any professional setting.
To explain this in an interview, emphasize the skills and insights you gained during this time and how they apply to the job. Whether it's learning to navigate unfamiliar environments, managing a project from concept to execution, or acquiring new languages or cultural insights, these experiences demonstrate your ability to take initiative, solve problems creatively, and adapt to new challenges.
Sample Answer: "I spent six months traveling through South America, immersing myself in different cultures, and volunteering with local organizations. This experience sharpened my problem-solving skills, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication abilities. Managing travel logistics and collaborating on diverse projects taught me valuable lessons in resilience and innovation, qualities I'm eager to bring to your team.
