Looking for a job when your resume has one or more gaps in your career path can be a source of significant stress. But a period of unemployment doesn't mean that your chances of getting a job are worse than others. You just need to know how to explain them well during the recruitment process.
The golden rule: honesty
It cannot be said enough, hiding gaps in a resume through lies or omissions is never the solution, and on the contrary may negatively affect your chances of success in your search. Depending on the recruiter's experience, they will realize that there is something wrong at some point. And if the recruiter doesn't notice when reading your resume or during the interview, calling your reference is likely to highlight things you could have kept for yourself. Sooner or later, your application will therefore be excluded from the process. So you have everything to gain by being honest.
How do you explain the gaps in your resume?
Because there is a good chance that the recruiter will ask you questions during the process, it is important to prepare your response before an interview so that you can give a clear and precise explanation.
Read: 10 mistakes not to make in an interview
Restructuring
A restructuring as a result of financial problems in a company is often a reason for a period of inactivity on a resume. In this case, it is a reason beyond your control and does not call into question your experience or skills. For periods, often short, such as this one, it is best to accept the situation and know how to explain it well when the time comes.
Parental leave
Pregnancy or parental leave is often responsible for a break of several months in one's career. In this case, make it clear in your resume, and when the subject comes up in an interview, be brief without going into too much detail. Taking care of a child is a daunting task and a very valid reason not to be working. Parental leave is often very well received.
Termination of employment on bad terms
In the case of leaving a company on bad terms, it is essential not to speak negatively about your former employer or former boss. This practice will almost always be seen as a sign of danger for a recruiter, and thus hinder your search.
Sometimes two personalities simply don't match up. We won't blame you for leaving an environment that didn't fit. In this case, you have to know how to stay positive and be able to move on. So you can highlight what this experience taught you.
Illness
A disease can strike at any time. Whether in the context of personal problems or to support a loved one, it is not necessary to give too many details. Just say that you are now well and feeling ready for new challenges!
Travel and gap year
Whether you're graduating or someone who simply has a taste for adventure, a gap year is another valid reason for a hole in your resume. Don't be afraid to write it clearly on your resume. This will bring out characteristics of your personality such as audacity, curiosity, courage, or even the desire to learn. During an interview, do not hesitate to show your confidence in your decision. The experiences you have had are certain to have allowed you to develop a host of skills that will serve you in the years to come, it is important to highlight this.
A few final tips:
- Always be honest in your resume and in your interview responses
- Never provide too much detail about your privacy. Keep it short and clear.
- In your cover letter, explain the various gaps in your resume in order to dispel doubts about your application.
- Note the training or activities you took during your periods of unemployment.
- Never speak ill of your former employers.
- Demonstrate that this period of professional gap still allowed you to learn or grow on a personal level.
Need advice on writing your resume? Check out our article 11 things not to put in your resume
