Career gaps are more common than you might think. Whether you took time off to care for family, pursue education, travel, or simply search for the right role, most professionals will experience breaks in their employment history. And as careers become less linear and people work longer, these gaps are only becoming more typical.
But how do you talk about them in an interview without raising red flags? Let’s break it down.
At a Glance: Addressing CV Gaps
- Frame your time away in a positive light – focus on growth or productivity.
- Avoid getting bogged down in unnecessary personal details.
- Emphasize your readiness to return and why the role you're applying for is the right fit.
General Tips for Explaining Employment Gaps
Before diving into specific scenarios, keep these general principles in mind:
- Structure your answer: Start with a brief explanation of the gap, then highlight how you spent the time, and finally tie it back to why you’re excited about this new opportunity.
- Show productivity: Whether you took a course, did freelance work, stayed current with industry trends, or volunteered, highlight what you’ve gained.
- Stay focused: Keep the conversation about how you used the time and what excites you about the role—not just why you weren’t working.
- Be honest: Transparency goes a long way, but keep it concise and relevant.
- Stay positive: There's no need to apologize for a gap—life happens, and your experience is valid.
7 Common CV Gaps and How to Explain Them
- Medical Leave
No need to share specific details—focus instead on recovery and readiness.
Example:
“I stepped away from my role due to a recurring medical issue, but I’ve fully recovered and am eager to rejoin the workforce. This role aligns well with my skills and values, and I’m excited to bring energy and commitment to the team.”
- Caring for a Family Member
Be clear but respectful of privacy, and show your current availability.
Example:
“I took time off to care for a close relative. Now that we’ve arranged full-time care, I’m ready to return to work. This role caught my eye because it builds on my leadership experience and aligns with the kind of impact I’m looking to make.”
- Redundancy
Keep your explanation factual, then shift to what you’ve done since.
Example:
“My previous role was made redundant due to company restructuring. I’m proud of my accomplishments there, and I’ve since stayed engaged with industry trends while reassessing my career goals. I’m especially drawn to this role because of its growth potential and alignment with my skill set.”
- Travelling
Talk about the growth and perspective gained, then pivot back to your career.
Example:
“I spent six months traveling through Southeast Asia to broaden my perspective and experience new cultures. It was enriching on many levels, and now I’m fully focused on the next step in my career. This role is particularly exciting to me because of its focus on innovation and development.”
- Job Searching
Make it clear you’ve been proactive and intentional during your search.
Example:
“Since finishing a temporary contract, I’ve been actively looking for the right next step. I’ve used this time to reflect on my goals, attend industry webinars, and sharpen my skills. This opportunity stood out because of the meaningful work and room for growth it offers.”
- Parental Leave
Acknowledge the time taken, and highlight your eagerness to re-engage.
Example:
“I took some time out to focus on raising my young son. Now that we’re settled into a good routine, I’m ready to rejoin the workforce. This role feels like a great match for my experience and the kind of challenge I’m looking for.”
- Returning to Education
Show how education was a strategic decision and how it benefits the role.
Example:
“I returned to education to strengthen my skills in data analytics. I saw it as an investment in my long-term career. Now that I’ve completed my studies, I’m excited to apply what I’ve learned in a role like this one, where I can really add value.”
Final Thoughts: Own Your Story
CV gaps aren’t something to be ashamed of—they’re part of a full, well-rounded career journey. When discussing them in an interview, be honest, confident, and clear about how you used that time and why you’re enthusiastic about the opportunity at hand.
By framing your experiences thoughtfully and showing your readiness to re-enter the workforce, you’ll not only address any concerns but potentially turn that gap into a strength.
