Finally, you’ve taken time off to process through your professional trauma, have been dedicating time to your partner and family, and now you’re ready to resume the job search with a strong foundation.
How do you actually address the employment gap while you were laid off?
Well, the answer is simple and complicated.
Companies know layoffs are part of doing business and it could happen to their candidates. There’s empathy and grave given for factors such as layoffs, health, caregiving, etc. BUT, they still want the best candidates that can do the job and will give them confidence that their candidate is able to do and excel in the position once awarded.
One of the primary fears is that employers will see gaps in resume as a “red flag”, that’s rarely the case. Yes, the flags may be present if the person has NO history for the gap, because that would give into the employer’s imagination, from killer to sugar-partner. The variations will only ask the employer to guess what you’ve been up to since your last known history.
Don’t do this.
The gap isn’t a weakness you need to hide, but a strength you need to highlight. Yes, you weren’t in a professional setting during the gap, but what were you doing?
Why do resume gaps feel daunting?
The idea of a resume gap can make most people anxious.
What does our anxiety tell us?
There’s a stigma that a gap mean we weren’t part of society, we were being lazy, unfocused, can’t keep a job, etc. All up to the employer to make up a scenario to explain why there was a gap. But, gaps are part of the natural and diverse career paths for many. Particularly as we advance in technology and become part of the global economy, we have more opportunities to explore, advance, take risks, etc.
Sadly, that perspective leads to self-doubt and make you feel less employable, and research is there to back it up too – those with a work gap have a 45% lower chance of receiving job interviews. The most significant drop in callback rates actually occurs between a 2-year and a 3-year gap, suggesting that employers might make quick judgments after a certain period (ResumeGo).
The job search is already a very stressful activity, add on top the employment gap can make anyone anxious and lose their self-confidence. Nearly, 72% of job seekers report negative impacts to their mental health (College Recruiter). The fear of judgment over a resume gap can exacerbate anxiety, depression, and feelings of worthlessness (Grand Rising Behavioral Health).
It’s a tough emotional cycle to break.
Personally, starting my professional career at the start of the Great Recession meant, even with employment gap, I was going to be difficult for find a job. On top, a few years after that period I had to take another two years employment gap. Additionally, several of my organizations thereafter had multiple rounds of layoffs.
Again, the stress was high and the challenges were against me. I was scared, worried, anxious, depressed, angry. But, even with those gaps, I was getting interviews quicker than my counterparts, because I understood that if I don’t tell people about the gap, they would have to make something up, and it wouldn’t be favorable.
What the gap really means?
It’s crucial to remember that employers are people too (well kind of, but not really) but the person reviewing your application is a person and they will interpret the information you share with them. It’s important to recognize that and not discuss or downgrade yourself because of the gap.
The truth is a gap isn’t a blank space – you were engaged in your life and the vast possibilities of what that brings you. For me, it was international traveling and health priorities that led to my gaps in employment.
Think about your gap, what were you doing during this time? Being lazy? Engaged in nefarious activities? or was it something else?
- Health or family care: Many individuals take time off to care for themselves or loved ones. This demonstrates empathy, responsibility, and strong organizational skills.
- Layoffs and economic shifts: Layoffs are a common reality, not a reflection of individual performance. A gap due to a layoff shows you navigated a challenging situation and are ready to re-engage.
- Skill development & education: Perhaps you used the time to go back to school, earn a new certification, or teach yourself a new skill. This shows initiative, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning.
- Personal growth & reflection: A break is needed for self-exploration, travel, or pursuing passions. This can lead to greater clarity on values, improved work-life boundaries, and a renewed sense of purpose
The current career progression isn’t a ladder it’s a roller coaster, because we have more access and more options, and it’s okay to enjoy the roller coaster while recognizing it’s crucial to share, within your limits, how you’ve invested your time.
Bridging the resume gap and showing growth
The key to turning a resume gap into an advantage is to own your story and present it strategically. Here’s how:
Explain the gap clearly (and concisely!): This is perhaps the most important step. Applicants who provide a clear reason for their work gap on their resume or cover letter receive close to 60% more interviews (ResumeGo). Be honest, brief, and focus on the positive outcomes or reasons for the break.
Example: “Career Break: Dedicated 18 months to full-time family care, during which I also completed [relevant online course/certification].”
Example: “Professional Sabbatical: Utilized 12 months for intensive skill development in [new skill area] and volunteer work with [organization].”
Upskill and reskill during the gap: If you used your time off for learning, highlight it prominently by listing certifications, workshops, or new skills learned.
Showcase volunteer work or side projects: Any unpaid work, consulting, freelance projects, or significant volunteer roles during your gap are valuable. Treat them like a job on your resume, highlighting responsibilities and achievements – family care counts!
Reinvigorate your resume & online presence: Update your resume to highlight recent achievements and skills. Optimize your LinkedIn profile to reflect your expertise and target roles, using relevant keywords. Mark yourself as “open to work” and ensure you have a professional photo.
Network actively: Reach out to former colleagues, managers, and industry contacts. Let them know you’re looking and share your updated story. Networking is often much more efficient than just applying on job boards, as most resumes don’t even make it past applicant tracking systems.
Practice your story for interviews: Start by creating your brand statement, which explains your professional journey confidently and concisely. Emphasize what you learned, how you grew, and how that experience makes you a stronger candidate now. Do not linger on the employment gap, simply share how you grew for the past X months/years.
Maintain a positive mindset & self-care: Job searching can be tough, especially with a gap. Having strong time management practice will help you maintain a daily routine, set small SMART goals, and celebrate progress. Prioritize sleep, nutrition, and exercise to manage stress and stay motivated.
How a career coach can help
Navigating a resume gap and confidently presenting your unique career journey can feel like a huge challenge, but you absolutely don’t have to do it alone. A career counselor or coach can be an invaluable strategic partner, helping you turn that perceived gap into a powerful asset.
Overcome stigma & build confidence: Coaches help you reframe your narrative, focusing on the strengths and growth gained during your time off. They provide emotional support and help you rebuild self-efficacy, which is crucial for a successful job search.
Craft your compelling story: They’ll work with you to articulate the value you gained during your gap, helping you craft a compelling story that resonates with employers. This includes identifying transferable skills and experiences that might not be obvious to you.
Optimize your materials: Coaches are experts at optimizing resumes and LinkedIn profiles. They can help you strategically place information about your gap, highlight new skills, and ensure your materials pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) effectively. 99% of organization use ATS, optimize early for greater success.
Master interview responses: They’ll conduct mock interviews, providing feedback on how to confidently and positively discuss your resume gap, turning it into a conversation about growth and resilience rather than a perceived weakness. Don’t let your practice interview be with a person that can offer you the job.
Strategic networking: Coaches can guide you in building and leveraging your network effectively, helping you connect with people who can vouch for your skills and open doors to opportunities that might not be publicly advertised. Nearly 60% of jobs aren’t posted online.
In essence, a career coach can be your strategic partner, helping you navigate the complexities of a resume gap, build your confidence, and present your unique career journey in a way that truly highlights your strengths and potential. Career coaches support you strategically, psychologically, and personally by helping you reach your career goals faster and easier.
You gap, your career advantage
A resume gap can feel like a significant hurdle, triggering anxieties and self-doubt. But it’s crucial to remember that these periods are often filled with valuable experiences, personal growth, and skill development that can make you a stronger, more resilient professional.
By understanding the common perceptions, proactively explaining your story, continuously investing in your skills, and leveraging the invaluable support of career coaching services, you can transform that perceived weakness into a powerful advantage. Your career journey is unique, and every chapter, including the “gaps,” contributes to the incredible professional you are becoming.
Embrace your story, confidently articulate your growth, and step into your next opportunity with renewed strength and purpose. You have the power to turn this adversity into a powerful chapter of growth and discovery.
