Thread by @hannytalker

There are many reasons why you may have gaps in your CV
but how can you explain any such gaps to an interviewer in a manner that actually sells you as a candidate, instead of sending employers running?

A thread

Structure your answer well. Briefly start by explaining why you were unemployed during that time, then go on to explain what you did, and lastly emphasise why you think this is the right opportunity for you.

When explaining how you’ve spent your time out of the workplace, it’s important that you demonstrate that you’ve done something productive and proactive. For instance, if you’ve been doing consulting on the side, studying or volunteering, or even keeping up with industry news,

you should mention this, as well as the skills you’ve learnt.

Focus your answer on how you used your time, and why you think this is the right role for you, rather than going into specifics about the reason for the gap.

Whatever the reason is, be open and honest with your answer, without going into unnecessary detail.

Use positive language and don’t apologise for taking a break or having a gap

If you had to take time off due to illness, you could be like:“I felt unable to continue in my previous position due to a recurring medical condition. However, I have now returned to full health and feel ready to take on this role. It’s a position that draws upon my existing

skills, fits my values and gives me the opportunity to add real value every day.”

if your previous roles was made redundant you could be like:My previous employer had to make a series of budget cuts, as a result of which, my role was made redundant. However, I’m proud of what I achieved in my previous role as a XYX.

I’ve used my time out of the workplace to really think about what I want from my next role and have also been proactively keeping up-to-date with the latest developments in the industry. This role particularly caught my attention as I’m keen to find an opportunity where I

can build on my existing skill set, manage a team, and really help drive the business forward.”

if you have been looking for a job you could be like:“As soon as my temporary role came to an end six months ago, I immediately began searching for a new job and am seeking a position that would enable me to continue advancing my career, build on my skills and make a difference

. While I have had several interviews, I haven’t found the right fit yet. I’m particularly interested in the opportunities that this role would provide me, such as X, Y, Z.”

if you took time out to look after children, you could be like:“I recently became a father and needed to prioritise my family and raising my young son after leaving my last role. I am now ready to re-enter the workplace and take on my next big challenge,

making the most of my personal and professional growth.”

if you went back into education, you could be like:“I identified that I had a skills gap, so took the decision to return to education in a bid to future-proof my career and upskill. Now that I’ve finished the course, I’ve been looking for a new position in which