Career breaks are more common than ever, but they can still raise questions with hiring managers. Whether you’ve taken time off for personal reasons, travel, or unexpected life events, knowing how to address gaps in your CV is essential to moving your job search forward.
At Resource Provider Ltd, we’re committed to helping professionals like you navigate career transitions with confidence. In this guide, we explain what a career gap is, how to talk about it effectively on your CV, and how to prepare for interview questions that may arise as a result.
What Is a Career Gap?
A career gap refers to a period of time when you were not employed in a paid position. These breaks can be voluntary such as taking time to travel, raise a family, or study or involuntary, like being made redundant or managing a personal health issue.
Whatever the cause, it’s important to understand that a gap in your employment history is not a dealbreaker. The key is how you present it.
Five Smart Ways to Explain a Career Gap on Your CV
1. Be Strategic and Resourceful
You don’t need to include your full work history, especially if it’s lengthy. Focus on your most relevant roles and achievements.
Consider listing only the years of employment rather than specific months. This can naturally reduce the appearance of short gaps without being dishonest. You can also address longer gaps in your cover letter instead of your CV, where you can provide more context.
2. Be Honest and Transparent
Avoid trying to cover up a gap or altering employment dates to hide it. Employers will often verify past positions, and dishonesty can quickly undermine your credibility.
Keep your explanation simple and professional. You don’t need to share every detail, but clarity builds trust. Acknowledging the gap shows confidence and integrity qualities every employer values.
3. Show Initiative During the Break
Use your time productively to enhance your employability. Take an online course, do freelance work, volunteer, or attend industry events. These activities can demonstrate continued personal and professional development, even if you weren’t in a traditional role.
Even personal projects like writing a blog or learning a new skill can show your commitment to growth.
4. Stay Positive
Avoid framing your time away from work as a failure. Instead, describe it as a choice or circumstance that helped you refocus your goals.
For example, rather than saying “I couldn’t find work,” you might say, “I took the opportunity to reassess my career direction and upskill before re-entering the workforce.”
A positive narrative gives hiring managers confidence in your resilience and forward-thinking attitude.
5. Be Prepared to Discuss It in Interviews
If your CV secures you an interview, you’ll likely be asked about any significant employment gaps. Have a clear and concise explanation ready.
Demonstrate that your time away has not diminished your enthusiasm or industry knowledge. Show that you’re up to date with current trends and ready to make an impact from day one.
How to Explain CV Gaps in a Job Interview
Here are examples of how to professionally explain different types of career breaks:
Travelling
Say: “I spent six months exploring different cultures and gaining life experience. The time helped me develop a broader perspective, and I’m now fully focused on the next step in my career.”
Avoid: “I wasn’t ready to settle down, so I travelled with no real plan.”
Family Commitments
Say: “I took time off to care for a relative, but their health has now improved and I’m excited to re-enter the workforce.”
Avoid: “I’d rather not talk about it.”
Health-Related Break
Say: “I faced a health issue that made working difficult, but I’m now fully recovered and ready for a new challenge.”
Avoid: “I have an ongoing condition that has affected my ability to work.”
Redundancy
Say: “My role was made redundant due to budget cuts. I’m proud of my achievements in that position, which my former manager would happily verify.”
Avoid: “The company didn’t value me and let me go.”
Final Thoughts: Own Your Story
A career gap only becomes a problem if it’s ignored or poorly explained. With preparation and a clear narrative, it can even become a strength. Employers appreciate transparency, enthusiasm, and individuals who take responsibility for their career path.
At Resource Provider Ltd, we believe your career break is just one part of your journey not the whole story. Be upfront, stay positive, and keep moving forward with confidence.
Need help with your CV?
Explore our expert resources, CV templates, and cover letter guides to make your application stand out.
Looking for your next opportunity?