Handling Gaps in Employment: What to Say

Employment Gaps Are More Common Than You Think in 2025

According to LinkedIn's 2025 data, 62% of employees have taken a career break at some point, and the stigma is rapidly decreasing. In fact, Indeed reports that tech layoffs have affected hundreds of thousands since 2022, normalizing employment gaps. How you address them still matters for positioning yourself effectively.

Common Reasons for Gaps

• Layoffs and company closures
• Health issues (personal or family)
• Caregiving responsibilities
• Pursuing education or certifications
• Personal projects or entrepreneurship
• Relocation
• Extended job search

How to Address Gaps on Your Resume

Strategic Formatting

• Use years instead of months for job dates
• Include relevant activities during the gap
• Lead with skills and achievements, not chronology

What to Include

• Freelance or consulting work
• Volunteer experiences
• Courses and certifications completed
• Personal projects relevant to your field

How to Explain Gaps in Interviews

The Framework

1. Be honest: Don't lie or over-explain
2. Be brief: State the reason clearly
3. Show growth: What you learned or did
4. Pivot forward: Focus on your readiness now

Example Answers

For caregiving:

"I took time off to care for a family member. During that period, I stayed current with industry trends and completed [relevant certification]. I'm now fully focused and excited to bring my experience to this role."

For layoff:

"My company went through a restructuring that affected my entire department. I used the time to [specific activity], and I'm now ready to contribute my skills to a growing team like yours."

For job search:

"I was intentional about finding the right fit rather than taking the first offer. During my search, I [learning/volunteering activity]. Your role aligns perfectly with what I was looking for."

What Not to Do

• Don't lie or make up positions
• Don't be defensive or apologetic
• Don't overshare personal details
• Don't speak negatively about past employers
• Don't bring it up unless asked

Proactive Measures

If you're currently in a gap:

• Take on freelance or project work
• Volunteer in your field
• Complete relevant certifications
• Build portfolio projects
• Stay active on LinkedIn

Conclusion

Employment gaps don't have to derail your job search. With honest, confident explanations and evidence of continued growth, you can turn gaps into non-issues—or even assets.