Gaps in employment are more common than ever. Layoffs, health issues, caregiving, career transitions, sabbaticals—there are countless legitimate reasons for resume gaps.
Here's how to address them without hurting your candidacy.
The Good News
Gaps are less stigmatized than they used to be. After COVID, mass layoffs, and shifting attitudes toward work-life balance, hiring managers are more understanding. What matters is how you frame the gap and what you did during it.
Common Gap Reasons (And How to Frame Them)
Layoff or Company Closure
Frame it as: "My position was eliminated when [company situation]. I used the time to [skill building, freelance work, etc.]"
Layoffs happen. Don't be defensive. Focus on what you did after.
Health Issues
Frame it as: "I took time to address a health matter, which is now fully resolved. I'm ready and excited to return to work."
You don't need to share details. Keep it brief and forward-looking.
Caregiving
Frame it as: "I took time to care for [family member]. During that period, I also [any relevant activities]. That situation is now resolved."
Career Transition
Frame it as: "I used this period to transition careers, completing [courses, certifications, projects] to prepare for this new direction."
Sabbatical/Travel
Frame it as: "I took a planned sabbatical to [travel, pursue personal project, recharge]. It was a valuable experience that [insight gained]."
Couldn't Find Work
Frame it as: "The market was challenging, but I used the time productively by [freelancing, volunteering, upskilling, etc.]."
How to Handle Gaps on Your Resume
Option 1: Use Years Only
Instead of "March 2022 - November 2023," use "2022 - 2023." This obscures short gaps.
Option 2: Include What You Did
If you did something productive during your gap, list it:
- Freelance consultant
- Independent study/coursework
- Volunteer work
- Personal project
Option 3: Address It in Your Cover Letter
Brief mention: "After [reason for gap], I'm excited to bring my refreshed perspective and [relevant skill] to this role."
In the Interview
When asked about gaps:
- Be honest (but you don't owe every detail)
- Keep it brief (don't over-explain)
- Pivot to the present ("...and now I'm excited to...")
- Show what you learned or did
What NOT to Do
- Don't lie (background checks exist)
- Don't be defensive or apologetic
- Don't badmouth former employers
- Don't overshare personal details
The Bottom Line
Everyone has gaps, transitions, or non-linear paths. What matters is showing that you're ready, capable, and motivated now.
Confidence is contagious. If you treat your gap as no big deal, interviewers will too.