work gaps cover letter

Cover Letter With Employment Gap | Sample and Template

Addressing an employment gap in a cover letter is a delicate art. Our page equips you with the finesse required to turn a career hiatus into a compelling story of personal and professional development.

Here, you’ll find insightful strategies, a robust sample, and a customizable template that together will help you navigate the discussion of employment gaps with confidence.

Use these resources to highlight your resilience and the valuable skills acquired during your time away from the workforce.

This guidance is crafted to ensure you present your career break not as a detour, but as a deliberate journey towards enhancing your professional stature.

Begin your next chapter with a cover letter that bridges the past with your bright future.

Sample Cover Letter With Employment Gap

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my keen interest in the Administrative Assistant position at Pathway Enterprises as listed on your website. Your commitment to community engagement and fostering a collaborative workplace aligns perfectly with my professional values and skills.

You may notice from my resume that there is a gap in my employment history from June 2021 to March 2024. I’d like to take a moment to share the context behind this. I made the decision to take this time off to fully dedicate myself to caring for an ailing family member. Though this period was focused on personal obligations, it also afforded me the opportunity to undertake personal development, improving my organizational and administrative capabilities.

During this interval, I completed an online course in advanced Microsoft Office Suite skills, which sharpened my proficiency in essential tools such as Excel, PowerPoint, and Word. Moreover, to maintain a connection to my professional roots, I volunteered as a part-time remote administrator for a local charity, Love for Literacy. In this capacity, I helped organize their online fundraising events, manage donor databases, and coordinate communication between different departments, effectively keeping my administrative skills sharp and current.

Now that I am re-entering the workforce, I am excited to bring a refreshed enthusiasm and a set of strengthened skills to the role at Pathway Enterprises. Prior to my hiatus, I accumulated over four years of experience as an Administrative Assistant where I excelled in roles that required exceptional attention to detail, strong organization skills, comprehensive management of executive schedules, and the handling of confidential information.

I am very hopeful about the opportunity to bring my blend of experience, coupled with fresh insights, to support the growth and efficiency of Pathway Enterprises. My dedication to excellent administrative support and continuous improvement make me the ideal candidate to contribute to the success of your team.

Please contact me at your convenience so we can discuss how I can be a part of Pathway Enterprises in greater detail. You can reach me at (000) 987-6543 or via email at [email protected] . Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your esteemed company and am ready to make a positive impact from day one.

Warmest regards,

Claire Thompson 789 Westward Lane Admin City, IN 46000 [email protected] (000) 987-6543

Cover Letter With Employment Gap (Template)

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I believe that my skills and experience make me a strong candidate for this role.

As you review my resume, you may notice a gap in my employment history. I want to provide context and address this directly. During that period, I made a deliberate decision to take time away from the professional world to focus on personal matters. This break allowed me to dedicate my attention to [reasons for the gap, such as family responsibilities, health, or personal development].

Although I was not working in a traditional role during this period, I remained actively engaged and committed to continuous self-improvement. I took advantage of the time to sharpen my [relevant skills] through online courses, workshops, and independent projects. Additionally, I volunteered my time with [reputable organizations], where I could contribute my skills while making a positive impact in the community.

While the gap in my employment history may raise questions, I want to emphasize that I have valuable skills and qualifications to offer. I am highly motivated, adaptable, and eager to contribute my expertise to [Company Name] and its mission.

I appreciate your time and consideration of my application. I am confident that my passion for [industry or field] and my dedication to personal growth make me an excellent fit for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills align with your needs in more detail during an interview.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Tips for Writing a Cover Letter With Employment Gap

If you’re crafting a cover letter and there happens to be a gap in your employment history, it’s essential to address this in a manner that puts a positive spin on your time away from the workforce.

Here are some practical tips to help you write an effective cover letter that explains the employment gap while emphasizing your strengths and suitability for the job.

1. Address the Employment Gap Upfront

Confront the issue head-on by providing a brief but honest explanation for your employment gap. Whether it was due to personal commitments, health issues, or a sabbatical for professional development, be upfront but concise about it.

2. Focus the Positive

Focus on the constructive aspects of your time out of work. If you acquired new skills, engaged in volunteer work, or pursued relevant certifications or studies, make sure you detail these and relate how they can benefit the prospective employer.

3. Highlight Your Transferable Skills

Draw attention to the transferable skills you’ve developed, which could include project management while volunteering, communication skills from coordinating community events, or problem-solving skills through diverse life experiences. Show how they apply to the position.

4. Emphasize Your Professional Development

If you used your time off to enhance your qualifications or stay current in your field, mention any relevant courses or certifications. This demonstrates your commitment to self-improvement and professional growth.

5. Showcase Relevant Achievements

Your employment gap doesn’t erase your prior work experience. Highlight your most relevant achievements from previous positions that show you have the skills and experience needed for the job.

6. Customize Your Cover Letter

Tailor each cover letter to the job and company you’re applying for. Research the organization and align your qualifications with their mission, culture, and the specifics of the job opening.

7. Maintain a Positive Tone

Keep the tone of your cover letter optimistic and enthusiastic. Rather than focusing on the gap, emphasize your readiness and zeal to return to the workforce.

8. Be Brief But Honest

Don’t dwell on the employment gap; provide enough information to address any concerns but keep the focus on your capabilities and the value you can bring to the company.

9. Avoid Negative Language

Refrain from using negative terms when discussing your employment gap. Words like “unemployed” can be replaced with “available for new opportunities” or “took a sabbatical.”

10. Request an Interview

Conclude your cover letter with a call to action, inviting the hiring manager to discuss your application in further detail through an interview.

Remember, transparency and the ability to turn potential weaknesses into showcases of strength and character can set you apart. Crafting your cover letter with these tips can help you effectively bridge the gap in your employment when applying for new job opportunities.

Recommended:

• Housewife Returning to Work Cover Letter Sample
• Mom Returning to Work Cover Letter Sample

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How to Explain Gaps in Employment (With Examples)

By Biron Clark

Published: November 8, 2023

Interview Preparation | Resume/CV

Biron Clark

Writer & Career Coach

Explaining gaps in employment can be intimidating, but there are a couple of effective methods you can use. In this article, I’m going to show you how to explain employment gaps in your interviews, resume and cover letter … with word-for-word examples and sample explanations.

Let’s get started with the interview first…

Explaining Gaps In Employment In Your Interview

Explaining gaps in employment is really just about knowing what reasons are okay to share, and which ones you should tell a white lie about or not share. And then being upfront and comfortable with your answer.

These are all good sample reasons for having a gap in employment:

• Caring for a sick family member
• Caring for a young child
• Any medical or health issue
• Taking time off to relocate and find a job in a new state/city
• Pursuing further education or going back to school
• Pursuing any other type of professional training
• Taking time off to travel, study, work on a solo project, etc.
• Trying to start a business or freelance career
• You were laid off , your former company downsized, etc… and you had trouble finding a job after
• You were actively searching but had trouble finding a job (NOTE: I’ll cover this in detail later but you need to make it sound like you were being selective in your job search and waiting to find the RIGHT fit. That sounds a *lot* better than saying, “I was looking everywhere but couldn’t find a single company that would consider hiring me!”

Once you have your reason prepared… Here are the general steps to follow when explaining gaps in employment in the interview: 

• Explain the situation clearly but briefly. They don’t need a ton of personal details. Just give them the core facts.
• Show that the situation has ended or is no longer a factor, so they won’t be worried you’ll have to take another break from working. If they hire you, they want to know you’re 100% ready to work for them.
• Reiterate your interest in their position and bring the focus back onto this job interview and this position.

Examples Of How To Explain Employment Gaps In An Interview:

Sample explanation 1:

I had to resign from my previous position to care for an aging family member. I did this for the past year. Since then, my siblings and I have hired a full-time caregiver so I no longer need to be present, and am fully available to work now and in the future. So I’ve begun job searching and I’m focused on finding a sales supervisor or manager position that will help me advance my career further now.

Sample explanation 2:

I was laid off nine months ago. I started my job search immediately after, and I’m looking for sales supervisor or sales manager positions now to continue advancing my career. I’ve had a number of interviews but haven’t found the right fit yet. One thing I’m looking for is a chance to mentor and train team members, and manage a team directly. I saw that mentioned on the job description for this position… can you tell me more about that?

Two Things To Remember When Answering:

1. You need to sound like an in-demand job candidate…

If you’re explaining a current gap in employment, you need to sound like you’re being selective and that you’re focused on making sure you find the best fit for the long term, rather than just accepting the first job you come across. That’ll make a 6 month gap (or longer) sound a bit better. If you’ve been job hunting during your employment gap, you don’t want it to sound like you haven’t had a single interview in the last few months. That’s never a good idea. If your gap in employment is related to health, travel, a family member’s health, etc…. then it’s fine to say you haven’t had any interviews.

2. Be upfront and honest…

Gaps in employment happen, and good hiring managers will realize this. If you’ve made it into the interview, there’s obviously something they liked on your resume . So when it comes to explaining gaps in employment it’s best to be honest and upfront.

You probably won’t lose out on the job by explaining the situation. You will definitely lose out on the job by lying or seeming like you’re trying to cover something up.

Explaining Gaps In Employment On Your Resume

Okay, maybe you’re still writing your resume or having trouble getting interviews. How do you explain gaps in your employment on your resume so you can GET interviews in the first place?

Here are a few ways you can explain (or hide) gaps in employment:

• List years instead of months for previous positions. (e.g. “2014-2016”). I’ve used this method in the past when I had a couple of small gaps between jobs (by a small gap, I mean 2-3 months maximum). This won’t work if you have too many gaps though, or gaps longer than one year.
• If your gaps are longer or more frequent, consider providing a brief note on the resume listing your reason for the gap in employment. Just list it like any other job. Put your previous positions with the dates you held them. And for your gap, you’d have dates there too, and a one-line explanation (“I took a hiatus from work in order to care for an elderly family member in need”).

If you use these strategies, consider going onto LinkedIn and making the same changes there too. If these options don’t work for you, write a cover letter ! This is a good idea no matter what. In your cover letter, explain what happened in detail and draw their attention to the gap so that you can tell them the full story instead of allowing them to make assumptions (you’re usually better off attacking controversial topics head-on).

That’s how I’d explain gaps in employment on a resume. Also, nobody can tell you with 100% certainty what will work in your industry, with the specific circumstances of your gap in employment (dates, length, reason for the gap, etc.)

So TEST things out. Send out 10 resumes one way, and if nobody’s responding, change something up. If it’s not working, you can’t just keep doing the same things on auto-pilot. That’s how you end up not finding a job .

It’s usually better to be upfront than hide employment gaps

I always give the same resume advice to candidates with gaps in their work history: Be straightforward rather than trying to hide dates or other pieces of information. Hiring managers are usually going to be able to tell if you’re hiding something. Your resume should feature a chronological work history on the first page that includes job titles, company names, key responsibilities for each role, and yes… dates of employment.

No matter what you do, there are some employers out there who won’t like the fact that you have a gap in your employment. That’s okay… Companies like that aren’t worth your time. We’re human. Things happen. And there’s more to life than working nonstop for 40 years. So don’t get discouraged if a few companies say they’re not interested, or just don’t respond. I guarantee those are the same companies you do NOT want to work for anyway because they’re going to have horrible vacation policies, bosses who question you every time you take a sick day, etc.

Note: These Tips and Sample Explanations Will Also Work on Job Applications

Sometimes a job application will say, “please explain any gaps in employment.” The advice resume advice above also work for job applications. Follow the same “rules”, be clear and upfront, and you’ll be fine when applying for jobs.

The one adjustment I’d recommend making on job applications (and cover letters): Be clear and direct, but don’t give too much information. The only goal of your job application is to get you into the interview. If they’re concerned about employment gaps, they can ask more in the interview. And that’s where you should be very honest/open and explain things further. That’s where you can gauge their reactions, decide how much to share based on their responses, etc. You can’t do this in a written explanation.

So, by writing too much info on a job application, you might do more harm than good. It’s better to discuss this type of thing in person, so  limit your explanation to 1-2 sentences for each gap in employment on your job applications, cover letters, etc. 

Final Advice on How to Explain Gaps in Employment:

Don’t be apologetic about your work history. Taking time off is not something to be ashamed of. Not every company will want to interview you, but some will. Stand by your decisions and choices, present your skills with a straightforward (chronological) resume format , and be ready to answer questions and explain yourself further in the job interview.

Related reading:

• What to do when you can’t find a job in your field
• How to answer “Why did you leave your last job?”

About the Author

Read more articles by Biron Clark

20 thoughts on “How to Explain Gaps in Employment (With Examples)”

Monster’s report The Future of Work 2021 has shown that the employment gap is no longer considered a red flag by almost half of employers in the US. That’s a piece of good news because it indicates that the marketplace is becoming more tolerant of deviance in the workforce.

However, it doesn’t mean that the black holes on your career record will be overlooked. Rather, they will be carefully examined and objectively evaluated so that the right candidates are not going to slip through the cracks just because of an obsolete prejudice.

I’m in the same situation, was an IT contractor for a number of years, then jobs fell away after year 2000 work had finished, and employers would no longer consider me for permanent jobs due to the fact i’d been a contractor, I guess they assumed I’d just leave when the market picked up!

Long story short, mortgage to pay, no income, had to sell my house and downsize to a flat, and then used that to go into property development with friends which has now finished, and now trying to go back to my original career of software development, seems like an uphill impossible task at the moment, but glad to read your advice even if my “career break” is 18 years!

I’ve done a lot of similar temporary jobs, but had several months gap in the middle of them nearly everytime. I’ve had dozens of interviews everytime, always get them easily. Struggle with the interviews though because I have Aspergers’. When I have been successful with that before as soon as I’ve mentioned my Epilepsy I have very mildly too, several places have changed their minds then, stopped me. I keep getting asked more + more now why I’ve got so many long employment gaps, how am I supposed to answer that in a positive way?

I thought it was interesting that you didn’t list caring for young children as a valid reason for a gap in employment. Your tips were still helpful to me, though.

Good point. That’s also a valid reason (and a common one).

Thank you for posting this, I have a ton of different jobs and gaps because being a ex pipe welder I went where the work was, most of the world does not get it. Life is a roller coaster companies will be booming for a couple years then dead as a door nail. This write up really has helped me not to make my crazy work history look so crazy.

Why don´t you just say Sabbatical ? Regardless how long the gap was it provides a plausible explanation and each one fill out with their own reasons…

i have gap of 9 month due to my previous company boss is horrible ,its very much difficulty to survive, so i had reign and taken break of six month ,from last 3 month i have given interview but its not happening so what i suppose to give reason for gap. can you explain can you explain.

Thanks for the nice article. But I am looking for more the answers of where to write this gaps explanations in our cv. My current CV sections are sunsequently like, Experiences, Educations, Technical skills and language skills, Certifications. So I have currently two 6 months gap in my CV. First one was before I started to my current job. I learned german, So I was in intensive german course. Other 6 months is after my last job. And I was preparing for the some certification exams through self study and online courses. So the question, to which section should I write this gap explanations. Thanks a lot for the answers

If you’re explaining a gap in employment, you should write it in your employment history. You should have a section with your chronological work history. I know other people recommend a “Functional” resume and all sorts of other stuff to hide gaps but in my experience, it doesn’t work. You should be listing each previous role and job duties in chronological order, with the dates. (You can choose to show months and years, or just years). And then you can put something to explain gaps of employment right in that section of your resume.

Thanks Biron Clark for the answer. As I understood you right you adviced me to write my gap explanations directly to work experiences section even though they are not work experience actually. Correct me if I understood wrong. But what about writing them to directly their own section. For example I have a section in the second page of my CV which is “language skills” So I have here just written english (business fluent), german (business fluent). Can I put that times combining near it. like below English (business fluent) German (business fluent), MM/YYYY – MM/YYYY German Course…..

or are you still offering me to write in employment history? Thanks for the ideas

I haven’t yet found the situation that applies to me, for good reason – I had taken a leave of absence to pursue a master’s degree. My mother had been ill with cancer, and was in remission, and I had the opportunity, so I went. Before I was able to complete my thesis, the cancer returned, and she died. I was devastated, and needed to take time away from teaching, because I couldn’t give students what they needed. So, though I had found another job teaching, I wasn’t able to do it, and they released me from my contract. I had only taught for a couple of weeks. After a year, I decided that I needed a longer break, and I obtained my real estate broker’s license. Since that time, I have sold real estate, although I have also been a substitute teacher – one year, I subbed the entire year with another teacher. We split the position. It saved the district money, since they didn’t have to pay benefits with two half-time teachers. The year after, I taught half days for several weeks for a teacher with a bad back problem, and I’ve subbed occasionally since then. Now, I want to go back to teaching. I’m ready now. My grief over the death of my mother is complicated, and it really devasted me. I needed the time away from teaching, because it requires everything you have to give, and I needed time to heal. I have 19 years’ experience as a teacher, and I’ve accomplished some things I’m very proud of. I am now applying for teaching positions, and I need a way to explain the past 5.5 years away from teaching full-time without sounding maudlin, or whiny.

This was really handy, thank you.

Hello! I have been unemployed for 9 months. I left my company where i had worked for 4 years to take another offer. Unfortunatey, I did leave this new position afte over 1 month. The main reason is that it doesn’t fit with me as I had thought of it. I don’t know how to explain my employmen gap for the past 9 months positively. I feel very uncomfortable and hopeless.

“You were laid off, your former company downsized, etc… and you had trouble finding a job after”

That’s pretty much why I’m not employed for now. And yet no one wants to even interview me.

I have periods of “good” jobs I would be happy to include on my resume followed by low-level jobs that would get my resume tossed. These cycles correlate to how well I have been able to deal with my depression. I have been leaving those lower-level jobs off my resume and trying to explain away the gaps instead without referring to depression as an issue that has surfaced more than once. I feel fine at the moment, but this is a big problem moving forward.

I would really like advice on how to deal with this situation without lying or oversharing!

Hello, I totally agree with Kero. Indeed, there is more to life than working nonstop for 40 years. I appreciate for your article, now I feel more confident.

Hi !! I just want to say thank you for providing this article and share it with all of us . Im out of job for almost 2 years already despite had a good career background but after continue searching there is no luck so far . Im really touched by the last part of this “So don’t get discouraged if a few companies say they’re not interested, or just don’t respond. I guarantee those are the same companies you do NOT want to work for anyway because they’re going to have horrible vacation policies, bosses who question you every time you take a sick day, etc.” …The moment I read that I burst into tear. So thank you again to at least cheer me up and have hope again .

Thanks for taking the time to write this. I’m really happy to hear this helped you.

Comments are closed.

An Example Cover Letter Explaining a Gap in Employment

When you are applying for jobs, hiring managers will always notice gaps in employment. They’ll understandably wonder what happened. Are you at high risk of quitting? Have you experienced performance issues or exhibited irresponsible behavior in the past? 

It’s very important that you don’t ignore or gloss over an employment gap. The best way is to deal with it is honesty. And the best place to do this is in your cover letter. The tips below will explain how to address common scenarios where you may have a gap in your employment, both good and bad. Keep reading, there’s also a sample cover letter explaining a gap in employment.

How Long is Too Long of an Employment Gap?

There’s no “unacceptable” length for an employment gap per se as there are many valid reasons why you have been out of the workforce for a year — continuing education, raising a family, or dealing with an illness. Most HRs will view a 1-5 year gap in employment as a reasonable break. But longer gaps, think 5+ years, will likely warrant a more detailed explanation in your cover letter. 

How Do You Explain a Gap in Employment in a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is meant to complement your resume — highlight your strengths, showcase your motivation, and address some of the shortcomings such as an employment gap. The best place to clarify the gap in employment is the body of your cover letter. Think second or third paragraph. 

Here’s a sample cover letter structure you may want to go for:

• Introduction: Hook the reader with your motivation and key qualifications.  
• Second paragraph: Reiterate the main skill or experience you are bringing to the table.
• Third: Briefly address your employment gap and state why you are eager to get back on track. 
• Conclusion. End on a high note. Mention the value you can bring to the company or speak about your passion for the job at hand. 

Now let’s look at greater depth on how you can turn the above outline into a persuasive cover letter explaining the gaps in employment!

Be Direct When a Gap in Employment is Objectively Positive

Some gaps in employment are positive things. Even so, you still need to address them. Otherwise, a potential employer might make assumptions. Instead, take advantage of the opportunity to share something positive. Address your gap directly if you are a homemaker returning to work , received a fellowship to pursue an academic interest, taken a hiatus to do volunteer work, or worked on an independent project. Not only will this clear up any misunderstandings, but it could also be a positive addition to your application packet.

Some Gaps Can Be Ignored

Before you spend time worrying about an employment gap, ask yourself if you need to address the issue at all. For example, if you have five or more years of steady employment history, there’s no need to bring up a gap in employment before that. Likewise, you don’t need to mention gaps in employment that occurred while you were a college student. You can also ignore any gap that is less than six months. 

Finally, job hopping can be a problem, but it is not the same as having an employment gap. How you handle job-hopping really depends on the industry, and what you were doing at the time. For example, some fields like retail , hospitality, customer service , etc, tend to have a quick turnover, and employment periods tend to be shorter.

Add The Gap in The Closing Paragraph as a Power Move

If you can put a positive spin on a gap in employment, especially a recent one, add it to your closing paragraph. You can use the gap to tell prospective employers that you are now ready to move forward and do great things in your career.

For example, imagine that you are returning to work after studying for a year. You could close your cover letter by writing:

‘I was fortunate enough to spend the past year studying Organizational Psychology at Boston University. I am now ready to take the skills I have acquired and apply them as your new manager of human resources. I would love to meet with you to discuss your needs.’

Never Give Too Much Information

Remember that you are not obligated to share all of the details about a negative gap in employment. Keep in mind that a previous employer is likely to be pretty tight-lipped about a negative relationship with you unless it is something they are legally obligated to disclose. While you shouldn’t lie, you don’t have to go into great detail. 

For example, don’t go into detail about an ongoing personality conflict with a previous employer that culminated in a heated argument, and resulted in damaging your reputation on the local business scene. Instead, simply mention a difference in opinion or conflicting working styles that led to your decision to rethink your career options.

Employment Gap Cover Letter Sample in .docx Format

Download example (Word version)

Example Cover Letter Explaining a Gap in Employment – Text Format

Dear Ms. Wilkerson, 

I am writing this letter to apply for the position of General Manager of your San Diego restaurant division. I have ten years of restaurant management experience, before that, I worked in both fronts of the house and back of house positions in the fine-dining space on the west coast. I believe the experience I have closely mirrors what you need in a GM.

As someone who works in the food-service industry, I have a passion for catering people. That passion extends beyond providing delicious food to the customers who come into my venus. Because of this, I recently took a year-long hiatus to help create nutritional programs for schools in developing nations. In addition to being privileged to help others, I learned quite a bit about reducing food waste and working within a very stringent budget. I know that I can turn those skills into cost savings for any restaurant that I manage.

I am ready to jump back into the game and restart my career as a restaurant manager. I am confident that I am the perfect person to lead your restaurants in the San Diego area. Let’s meet to discuss this further!

Thanks for your time,

Jeffrey Ninja

How To Address a Gap in Employment? More Examples!

Still not sure how to compose the right narrative? Here are several quick snippets you can use in your cover letter:

Explaining a Gap in Employment Due to Family 

For the past three years, I’ve been serving as a Resident Home Educator, to my two kids, aged 6 and 9. While I’ve been out of my original career lane as a Communications Manager, I still practiced and developed my skills. Homeschooling my children have helped me improve my presentational skills and research skills. I’m now an expert in breaking down complex concepts into engaging short narratives and feel that this ability will help me find success in a new role as an Editorial Strategist with your firm. 

Explaining a Gap in Employment Due to Mental Illness

After successfully completing the $50 million M&A deal at my previous consulting firm, I decided to take a year off to restore my mental health. This time has also helped me reflect on my priorities and re-evaluate my career path, leading me to the idea of transitioning to a non-profit sector. I believe Charity Quest can greatly benefit from my past financial advisory experience to ensure better P&L management and cash flow. 

Explaining a Gap in Employment Due to Covid-19

I greatly enjoyed working at Nightime Lounge, where I served as a chief mixologist for the past 1.5 years and a half. The restaurant manager, James Welsh, can provide further reference on my performance. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, I was furloughed. However, I used my free time to create a YouTube channel and short cocktail mixology course with several signature recipes. You can review both on my website. 

How Do You Explain Gap Year in Cover Letter?

The easiest way to bring up your gap year is by briefly explaining what you did and what skills or experiences you’ve obtained along your journey. Don’t talk about the fun travel you did or lounge time you had. Instead, focus on the vocations, interests, and perhaps extra education that you’ve pursued along the way. 

Here’s a quick example of how to address a gap year in your cover letter:

“After completing my BS degree in Biology at Denver State University, I chose to take a gap year to reflect on my studies and determine which career path may work best for me. During that time, I volunteered with the West Coast Marine Savers and my experience lead me to discover my passion for water conservation. When I noticed an opening at your firm, I was excited to jump at the opportunity for applying.”

How to Explain Gaps in Employment Due to Disability?

Becoming temporary or permanently disabled can have a severe mental toll on you, which is understandable. But don’t let your doubts or negative emotions get into the way of your job search. Instead of treating (and thus speaking about) your disability as a weakness, merely acknowledge it as one of the facts. Then move on to highlighting some of your other strengths. 

Here’s a quick example of how you can address disability in your cover letter:

“ Two years ago, I got into a bad car accident and was left disabled for the following 1.5 months. Today, I have fully recovered mentally, yet still, have some difficulties walking. However, my condition in no way affects my ability to create user-friendly website designs and, specifically, material design applications.”

Final Tip: Keep it Brief, Yet Direct

Don’t make the mistake of drawing more attention to gaps in your employment than you need to. Your cover letter should focus on your skills, passions, and fit for the job. If you spend more than a couple of sentences over-explaining a gap in your work history, that’s going to be problematic. Be brief and matter of fact.

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Written Samples

15 sample cover letters for gap in employment.

Are you feeling anxious about a gap in your employment history?

Many job seekers face this challenge, whether due to personal circumstances, career changes, or unexpected layoffs.

The good news is that a well-crafted cover letter can help you address these gaps and showcase your strengths to potential employers.

Sample Cover Letters for Gap in Employment

In this article, we will provide 15 sample cover letters tailored for various employment gap scenarios, empowering you to confidently pursue your next career opportunity.

Cover Letter One: Returning to the Workforce After Raising Children

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am excited to apply for the Marketing Coordinator position at XYZ Company. With over five years of experience in digital marketing before taking a career break to raise my children, I am eager to return to the workforce and contribute my skills to your dynamic team.

During my time away from the corporate world, I remained active in the marketing community by volunteering for local non-profit organizations. I managed their social media accounts, created engaging content, and organized successful fundraising events. These experiences not only kept my marketing skills sharp but also enhanced my ability to multitask, prioritize, and collaborate effectively.

In my previous role as a Marketing Specialist at ABC Inc., I implemented successful email campaigns that increased customer engagement by 30% and generated a 20% increase in sales revenue. I am confident that I can bring the same level of dedication and results-driven approach to XYZ Company.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how my skills and experiences align with your company’s goals and contribute to its success.

[Your Name]

Cover Letter Two: Addressing a Gap Due to Personal Illness

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Software Developer position at XYZ Company. With a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and three years of experience in full-stack development, I am confident in my ability to make a meaningful contribution to your team.

You may notice a gap in my employment history from 2020 to 2021. During this time, I faced a personal health challenge that required my full attention. Thankfully, I have made a complete recovery and am now ready to fully dedicate myself to my career once again.

Throughout my professional journey, I have consistently demonstrated my ability to develop robust and scalable applications using modern technologies such as Java, Python, and ReactJS. In my previous role at ABC Tech, I successfully led the development of a web application that streamlined internal processes, resulting in a 25% increase in productivity.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my technical expertise and problem-solving skills to XYZ Company. I am particularly drawn to your company’s innovative projects and commitment to using technology for social good.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the chance to further discuss how I can contribute to your team’s success.

Best regards,

Cover Letter Three: Explaining a Gap Due to Caring for a Family Member

I am writing to apply for the Customer Service Representative position at XYZ Company. With over seven years of experience in customer-facing roles, I am passionate about delivering exceptional service and building long-lasting customer relationships.

From 2019 to 2020, I took a career break to care for my elderly parent who was battling a serious illness. During this challenging time, I developed a deeper sense of empathy, patience, and adaptability – qualities that I believe are essential in providing outstanding customer service.

In my previous role as a Customer Service Specialist at ABC Corporation, I consistently exceeded performance targets, maintaining a 98% customer satisfaction rating. I am skilled in handling complex customer inquiries, de-escalating tense situations, and finding creative solutions to meet customer needs.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my customer service expertise to XYZ Company and contribute to your team’s success. Your company’s reputation for exceptional customer care aligns perfectly with my values and career goals.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the chance to further discuss how my experiences and skills can benefit your organization.

Cover Letter Four: Addressing a Gap Due to Pursuing Higher Education

I am thrilled to apply for the Financial Analyst position at XYZ Company. With a recently completed Master’s degree in Finance and three years of prior experience in financial analysis, I am confident in my ability to make a significant contribution to your team.

You may notice a two-year gap in my employment history from 2020 to 2022. During this time, I made the decision to pursue a Master’s degree in Finance to further enhance my knowledge and skills in the field. This educational experience not only provided me with advanced technical skills but also honed my critical thinking, data analysis, and problem-solving abilities.

In my previous role as a Financial Analyst at ABC Corporation, I conducted in-depth financial modeling and analysis, resulting in cost savings of over $500,000 for the company. I am skilled in using financial software such as Bloomberg Terminal and have a keen eye for identifying trends and opportunities.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my enhanced financial expertise and passion for data-driven decision-making to XYZ Company. Your company’s reputation for financial excellence and commitment to innovation aligns perfectly with my career aspirations.

Cover Letter Five: Explaining a Gap Due to Relocation

I am excited to apply for the Sales Manager position at XYZ Company. With over eight years of experience in sales and a proven track record of exceeding targets, I am confident in my ability to drive growth and contribute to your team’s success.

You may notice a six-month gap in my employment history from mid-2021 to early 2022. During this time, my spouse received a job opportunity that required us to relocate to a new city. While this transition took some time, I am now fully settled and eager to resume my career in sales.

In my previous role as a Sales Representative at ABC Corporation, I consistently ranked as a top performer, surpassing sales targets by an average of 25% each quarter. I am skilled in building strong customer relationships, identifying new business opportunities, and implementing effective sales strategies.

I am particularly drawn to XYZ Company’s innovative products and customer-centric approach. I am excited about the opportunity to bring my sales expertise and leadership skills to your team and contribute to your company’s continued success.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the chance to further discuss how I can help drive sales growth and exceed customer expectations at XYZ Company.

Cover Letter Six: Addressing a Gap Due to Entrepreneurial Venture

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Operations Manager position at XYZ Company. With over ten years of experience in operations management and a successful entrepreneurial venture under my belt, I am confident in my ability to drive efficiency and optimize processes for your organization.

From 2018 to 2021, I took a break from traditional employment to start my own e-commerce business. As the founder and CEO, I oversaw all aspects of the company, from product development to supply chain management and customer service. During this time, I honed my leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, successfully growing the business to a six-figure revenue within two years.

While I am proud of my entrepreneurial accomplishments, I have decided to return to a corporate role where I can contribute my operational expertise and leadership skills to a larger organization. In my previous role as an Operations Manager at ABC Corporation, I implemented process improvements that increased productivity by 20% and reduced operational costs by 15%.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my diverse skill set and entrepreneurial mindset to XYZ Company. Your company’s commitment to operational excellence and innovation aligns perfectly with my values and career goals.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the chance to further discuss how I can contribute to your team’s success and drive operational efficiencies at XYZ Company.

Cover Letter Seven: Explaining a Gap Due to Volunteer Work

I am excited to apply for the Program Coordinator position at XYZ Non-Profit Organization. With over five years of experience in program management and a deep passion for community service, I am confident in my ability to make a meaningful contribution to your team and support your organization’s mission.

You may notice a one-year gap in my employment history from 2021 to 2022. During this time, I decided to take a sabbatical and dedicate myself to full-time volunteer work. I spent six months in a developing country, working with a local NGO to implement education and healthcare initiatives in underserved communities. This experience not only reinforced my commitment to social impact but also enhanced my cross-cultural communication, adaptability, and project management skills.

In my previous role as a Program Manager at ABC Non-Profit, I successfully designed and implemented a mentorship program that matched underprivileged youth with industry professionals, resulting in a 90% high school graduation rate among participants. I am skilled in program development, stakeholder engagement, and impact measurement.

I am particularly drawn to XYZ Non-Profit’s mission of empowering marginalized communities through education and advocacy. I am excited about the opportunity to bring my program management expertise and passion for social change to your organization.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the chance to further discuss how I can contribute to your team’s success and make a positive impact in the communities you serve.

Cover Letter Eight: Addressing a Gap Due to Military Service

I am writing to apply for the Logistics Coordinator position at XYZ Company. As a recent veteran with over six years of experience in military logistics and supply chain management, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your team’s success and drive operational efficiency.

From 2016 to 2022, I served in the United States Army as a Logistics Specialist. During my service, I oversaw the management and distribution of supplies, equipment, and personnel across multiple locations. I developed strong skills in inventory management, transportation coordination, and problem-solving under high-pressure situations.

While transitioning back to civilian life, I completed a Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management to complement my military experience with formal education. I am now eager to apply my logistics expertise and leadership skills to a corporate setting.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my unique blend of military discipline, adaptability, and logistics knowledge to XYZ Company. Your company’s reputation for operational excellence and commitment to employee development aligns perfectly with my career aspirations.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the chance to further discuss how I can contribute to your team’s success and drive logistics efficiency at XYZ Company.

Cover Letter Nine: Explaining a Gap Due to Career Change

I am excited to apply for the Graphic Designer position at XYZ Company. While my background may seem unconventional, I am confident that my diverse experiences, creative skills, and passion for design make me a strong candidate for this role.

You may notice a two-year gap in my employment history from 2020 to 2022. During this time, I made the bold decision to pursue a career change from accounting to graphic design. I enrolled in a rigorous design program, where I honed my skills in Adobe Creative Suite, typography, and visual communication. I also completed several freelance projects, creating logos, brochures, and websites for small businesses.

Before my career transition, I worked as an Accountant at ABC Corporation for five years. While my role focused on financial analysis, I consistently found ways to incorporate my creative skills, designing visually appealing presentations and reports that effectively communicated complex financial data.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my unique perspective, problem-solving abilities, and design skills to XYZ Company. Your company’s reputation for creative excellence and commitment to innovation aligns perfectly with my career aspirations.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the chance to further discuss how my diverse background and passion for design can contribute to your team’s success and bring a fresh perspective to your creative projects.

Cover Letter Ten: Addressing a Gap Due to Pursuing Personal Goals

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Project Manager position at XYZ Company. With over eight years of experience in project management and a proven track record of delivering successful projects, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your team’s success.

You may notice a six-month gap in my employment history from early to mid-2021. During this time, I decided to take a personal sabbatical to pursue a long-standing personal goal – climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. This experience not only challenged me physically and mentally but also reinforced my resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving skills – qualities that I believe are essential for effective project management.

In my previous role as a Senior Project Manager at ABC Corporation, I successfully led cross-functional teams in delivering complex projects on time and within budget. I am skilled in project planning, risk management, and stakeholder communication, consistently achieving client satisfaction rates above 95%.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my project management expertise and passion for driving results to XYZ Company. Your company’s reputation for excellence in project delivery and commitment to employee growth aligns perfectly with my career goals.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the chance to further discuss how I can contribute to your team’s success and deliver high-impact projects at XYZ Company.

Cover Letter Eleven: Explaining a Gap Due to Pursuing Professional Certification

I am excited to apply for the Human Resources Manager position at XYZ Company. With over ten years of experience in HR and a recently acquired SHRM-SCP certification, I am confident in my ability to make a significant contribution to your team and drive HR initiatives that support your organization’s goals.

You may notice a four-month gap in my employment history in 2022. During this time, I decided to take a short break from my career to fully dedicate myself to preparing for the SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) exam. This rigorous certification process not only enhanced my knowledge of strategic HR practices but also reinforced my commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

In my previous role as an HR Business Partner at ABC Corporation, I successfully implemented a company-wide performance management system that aligned individual goals with organizational objectives, resulting in a 25% increase in employee engagement. I am skilled in talent acquisition, employee relations, and HR strategy development.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my HR expertise and passion for driving employee success to XYZ Company. Your company’s reputation for excellence in people management and commitment to creating a positive workplace culture aligns perfectly with my own values and career aspirations.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the chance to further discuss how I can contribute to your team’s success and develop HR strategies that support your organization’s growth.

Cover Letter Twelve: Addressing a Gap Due to Temporary Consulting Work

I am writing to apply for the Marketing Manager position at XYZ Company. With over seven years of experience in marketing and a proven track record of developing successful campaigns, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your team’s success and drive marketing initiatives that generate results.

You may notice a one-year gap in my traditional employment history from 2021 to 2022. During this time, I decided to pursue temporary consulting work, providing marketing strategy and execution services to several small businesses and startups. This experience not only diversified my skill set but also honed my ability to adapt quickly to new industries and challenges.

In my previous role as a Marketing Specialist at ABC Corporation, I developed and executed multi-channel marketing campaigns that increased brand awareness by 40% and generated a 25% increase in lead generation. I am skilled in market research, content creation, and data-driven decision-making.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my marketing expertise and entrepreneurial mindset to XYZ Company. Your company’s reputation for innovative marketing strategies and commitment to staying ahead of industry trends aligns perfectly with my career goals.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the chance to further discuss how I can contribute to your team’s success and develop marketing initiatives that drive business growth at XYZ Company.

Cover Letter Thirteen: Explaining a Gap Due to Caring for a Personal Health Issue

I am excited to apply for the Customer Success Manager position at XYZ Company. With over six years of experience in customer success and a passion for building long-lasting client relationships, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your team’s success and drive customer satisfaction.

You may notice a nine-month gap in my employment history from late 2021 to mid-2022. During this time, I faced a personal health challenge that required my full attention and time to address. Thankfully, I have made a complete recovery and am now ready to fully dedicate myself to my career once again.

In my previous role as a Customer Success Specialist at ABC Corporation, I consistently exceeded customer retention targets, achieving a 95% renewal rate among my client portfolio. I am skilled in account management, relationship building, and proactively identifying and addressing customer needs.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my customer success expertise and passion for driving client satisfaction to XYZ Company. Your company’s reputation for exceptional customer service and commitment to building long-term partnerships aligns perfectly with my values and career goals.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the chance to further discuss how I can contribute to your team’s success and help drive customer loyalty and growth at XYZ Company.

Cover Letter Fourteen: Addressing a Gap Due to Pursuing a Creative Passion

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Content Strategist position at XYZ Company. With over five years of experience in content creation and a recently published novel under my belt, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your team’s success and develop engaging content strategies.

You may notice a one-year gap in my traditional employment history from 2021 to 2022. During this time, I made the bold decision to take a sabbatical and dedicate myself to writing my first novel. This creative pursuit not only sharpened my writing skills but also reinforced my ability to craft compelling stories, engage audiences, and meet ambitious deadlines.

In my previous role as a Content Marketing Specialist at ABC Corporation, I developed and executed content strategies that increased website traffic by 50% and generated a 30% increase in lead generation. I am skilled in SEO optimization, social media management, and data-driven content creation.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my content expertise and creative mindset to XYZ Company. Your company’s reputation for innovative content marketing and commitment to storytelling aligns perfectly with my own passions and career aspirations.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the chance to further discuss how I can contribute to your team’s success and develop content strategies that captivate audiences and drive business growth at XYZ Company.

Cover Letter Fifteen: Explaining a Gap Due to Pursuing Language Studies Abroad

I am excited to apply for the International Sales Representative position at XYZ Company. With over four years of experience in sales and a recently completed intensive language immersion program in Spain, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your team’s success and drive sales growth in international markets.

You may notice a six-month gap in my employment history in 2022. During this time, I decided to pursue an intensive Spanish language immersion program in Madrid. This experience not only enhanced my language proficiency but also deepened my understanding of cross-cultural communication and international business practices.

In my previous role as a Sales Associate at ABC Corporation, I consistently exceeded sales targets, achieving 120% of my quota in my last fiscal year. I am skilled in relationship building, negotiations, and adapting my sales approach to diverse customer needs and cultural contexts.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my sales expertise and language skills to XYZ Company. Your company’s reputation for success in international markets and commitment to cultural diversity align perfectly with my career goals and personal values.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the chance to further discuss how I can contribute to your team’s success and help drive sales growth in Spanish-speaking markets at XYZ Company.

Addressing employment gaps in your cover letter can be a challenging but crucial aspect of your job search.

By being proactive, honest, and highlighting the valuable experiences and skills you gained during your time away from the traditional workforce, you can effectively showcase your unique value proposition to potential employers.

Remember, every candidate’s journey is different, and it’s essential to tailor your cover letter to your specific circumstances and the requirements of the job you’re applying for.

Use these 15 sample cover letters as a starting point, but don’t be afraid to infuse your personality, experiences, and accomplishments into your writing.

By crafting a compelling cover letter that addresses your employment gap head-on, you can demonstrate your resilience, adaptability, and commitment to your career growth.

So, embrace your unique story, showcase your strengths, and confidently pursue your next career opportunity.

Employment Gap on a Resume - 13 Simple Ways to Explain It

Employment gaps are not uncommon, yet they’re quite scary. Mainly, that’s because recruiters assume the worst when they see them on a resume. 

In most cases, however, employment gaps are nothing to be scared of. There can be many justifiable reasons why someone has an employment gap, from going back to school and deciding to travel to taking time and caring for their growing children. 

So what we’re getting to here is this: employment gaps are not a big deal, as long as you know how to explain them well on your resume

To learn how to explain an employment gap on a resume, we’ve put together this guide for you. Here’s what we’ll cover:

13 Best Ways to Explain Employment Gaps

• Good Reasons for an Employment Gap

Sample Resume with Employment Gap

And more! So let’s dive right in! 

During your job hunt , you’ll have three separate chances to explain an employment gap:

• On your resume
• On your cover letter
• During your interview

To best convey the employment gap (and reasons behind it), you’ll need to touch on it in all 3. So below, we’ll explain the best way to explain an employment gap on your resume, cover letter, and during an interview:

6 Ways to Explain an Employment Gap on Your Resume

#1. be honest .

Your resume is the first thing that recruiters check, so it’s crucial that you’re honest! 

After all, you don’t want to omit a two-year-long employment gap from your resume, for example, only to have it be revealed during your interview. 

As such, it’s super important that you’re honest about your employment history - or lack thereof - right there on your resume. 

What’s important here is to understand that potential employers will find out about your employment gap - especially if it was a lengthy or recent one. As such, trying to hide it will only damage your application and give recruiters even more reason to believe you have something to hide. 

And, if you’re feeling anxious about it, remember that recruiters are also humans and will probably be understanding if you are straightforward about your employment gap - and about what caused it! 

#2. Remove the Employment Gap (If It’s Outdated)

Here’s some good news: if your employment gap is old, you can safely omit it from your resume entirely.

Say, for example, your employment gap is from 10 years ago. Chances are - especially if you’re a seasoned professional - that you won’t even be including jobs from 10 years ago on your resume. After all, you want your resume to be as relevant as possible (and stay within the recommended 1-page resume length). 

As such, it’s totally OK to omit employment gaps that stretch long before your recent employment history (or that are quite short, like 6-month-old employment gaps while you were between jobs). 

#3. Explain the Gap

When it comes to resumes, simply writing down the dates of your employment gap won’t cut it - it would only leave things open to recruiters’ interpretation. 

Take the following example:

Work Experience

Digital Marketer  Airfield Baumax  02/2012 - 04/2015

Marketing Assistant  Walmart 05/2007 - 07/2009 

The only thing that this candidate makes clear to recruiters is that he was not working for a 3-year period. Apart from that, recruiters have no way of knowing whether the employment gap was due to a valid reason or because the candidate decided to be a couch potato for some years.

This is why it’s better to actually write out the exact reason for the employment gap in-between your work experience entries.

Here’s an example that does it right:

07/2009 - 01/2012

From September 2009 to January 2012, I backpacked through Europe and East Asia. This had long been a goal of mine to achieve before turning 30.

#4. Take Advantage of a Different Resume Layout

If your employment gap is longer than just a few short months, you could benefit from using a different resume layout altogether. 

For example, the functional resume format and the combination format put more emphasis on your skills and competencies rather than on your work experience, which is a great way to shift focus from your employment gap. 

That said, taking advantage of a different resume layout does not mean you should omit the employment gap from your resume altogether . Lying is never the right way to go here, and will always end badly for you (even if you manage to get the job).

#5. Use Your Time Away Effectively 

If you’re suddenly in between jobs and are worried about how this will reflect on your future job applications, get proactive! 

Instead of simply explaining your future employment gap as a “career break” or “job searching,” start a personal project and create something more valuable to put on your resume. 

For instance, you can join one or more online courses related to your profession while you’re on a break from work, or start that project you always wanted to work on but never had the chance to! 

That way, you’ll have much more to talk about than simply stating you were looking for jobs or taking a self-discovery break and you’ll be effectively showing recruiters that you’re constantly growing - even outside the office!

#6.  Show That You Never Stopped Learning 

Highlighting your skills and acquired knowledge is also a great way to cover past employment gaps. Sure, you might’ve not been working, but you could’ve still been working on developing yourself as a professional or individual.

You could, for example, mention something like this on your resume to address your employment gap:

06/2012 - 09/2013

Took a year off my career to focus on personal and professional development. Over the duration of the year, I managed to:

• Start my own marketing blog.
• Read 20+ books about digital marketing.
• Attended 5+ networking events.

3 Ways to Explain Employment Gaps in Cover Letters

Want to go more in-depth into your employment gap? Your cover letter is your chance to do so. 

Unlike your resume, which barely leaves you 2-3 sentences worth of space to explain yourself, you can be way more comprehensive in your cover letter . 

Specifically, you can use the body of your cover letter to give more details about your employment gap.

Here are the best ways to do it:

• Give a valid explanation. The whole point of mentioning your employment gap on your cover letter is to justify it the best way you can. For example, if you had an accident, writing “took 1 year off work because of injury” won’t be as convincing as writing “took 1 year off work after a car accident that required me to do intense physiotherapy sessions to fully recover.” 
• Highlight new skills . Additionally, it’s super important to highlight any new skills acquired during your time off. The good thing about the cover letter is that you have a better chance of explaining the skills and what motivated you to acquire them (e.g. “due to organizational changes, I was laid off from my previous job. However, I used the time it took me to find a new job to catch up on industry-related trends and readings, get online certifications, and network with professionals in the field.”) 
• Don’t overshare. Last but not least, it’s important to know that just because you have more space on your cover letter it doesn’t mean you should overshare the details of your employment gap. If, for instance, you took a one-year break to deal with burnout , you don’t have to give too many details about how that went. So, instead of writing, “took a year off to recuperate from burnout, during which time I consulted 3 different therapists and several support groups,” you can just write “took one year off work to deal with work-related burnout and re-asses my professional goals.” If you think it’s important to share more information, talk about how you grew professionally not about what you went through personally. 

4 Ways to Explain Employment Gaps in Interviews 

If your resume and cover letter make a good impression, chances are you’ll be called for an interview. And, even if you have already explained your employment gap, there’s nothing keeping recruiters from asking you again about it. 

Here’s what you can do to address an employment gap during your interview effectively:

• Rehearse in advance. Your best bet is assuming that you will be asked about your employment gap. That way, you can take the time to prep your answer in advance and won’t be taken back if recruiters actually ask the questions during the interview . 
• DON’T badmouth your former employer. If your employment gap is due to getting fired, bashing your former employer won’t help you get a new position - if anything, it might make you look immature. Instead, try to highlight all the steps you took to bounce back from getting fired and show recruiters why you’re the ideal candidate for this position.
• Focus on what you did right. Now, if you lost your job unjustly (or due to reasons outside of your control), the way to make a great impression is to focus on how you were a stellar employee before the employment gap! That way, you can shift recruiters’ attention to your strengths, instead of simply telling them you lost your job and there wasn’t much you could do about it.
• Be confident. Sometimes, how you say things is just as important as what you say. If recruiters ask that you elaborate on your employment gap and you suddenly get super nervous about it, you’ll probably raise some serious red flags. So, make sure to polish your communication skills in advance and start your interview with a show of confidence. 

Here is an example of how you can address your employment gap during an interview:

Unfortunately, I lost my job due to cuts within the company. During the time I was looking for jobs, I took online courses to hone my skills, stayed updated with all industry trends and developments, and focused on my mental wellbeing. I am now in perfect shape to put all I learned into practice throughout my new endeavors. 

7 Good Reasons For an Employment Gap

There can be countless reasons behind an employment gap and, as long as it’s not related to something like, say, jail time, it shouldn’t hinder your chances of getting employed.

That said, here are some great examples of good reasons for an employment gap:

• Family reasons. Family is super important and most recruiters are guaranteed to be understanding if your employment gap is due to family-related issues. What’s important here is to show that whatever family reason you had for taking time off work, it’s over now (e.g. if you took time off to raise your kids, make a point explaining they’re all grown up and off to school now).
• Self-discovery. Did you take some time off work to redefine your life path and career choices? That’s totally OK - as long as you can convince recruiters that you now have your answers and won’t be leaving this job again after a year or two.
• Illness. Any illness you may have suffered that’s hindered you from working is a totally legitimate reason to explain your employment gap. Just make sure to mention you’re recovered and fully able to work.
• Injury. Just like with illnesses, injuries that render you incapable of work are perfectly fine reasons to explain an employment gap, so mention them without hesitation.
• Failed business or initiative. You may be hesitant to mention a failed startup or business initiative as the reason behind your employment gap, but there’s no reason to! If anything, it shows you have initiative and aren’t scared to act on it. So, as long as you show recruiters how you bounced back, you shouldn’t hide this valid reason.
• Burnout. The World Health Organization defines burnout as an occupational phenomenon that can take a serious toll on someone’s physical and mental health. As such, don’t hesitate to tell recruiters that you took some time off to improve your well-being after experiencing burnout in the workplace .
• Education. No one minds an employee who’s always looking to expand their knowledge, so if you took a break from work to get another degree, go ahead and mention that on your resume.

7 Other Resume Resources

Building a strong resume is hard enough without having to explain an employment gap. Struggling with other aspects of building a resume? Check out some of our top resources: 

• How to Write a Resume . The ULTIMATE beginner’s guide on how to make a resume in 2024. Includes tops of tips, resume examples, and more.
• Free Resume Templates . Want to avoid the hassle of formatting your resume from scratch? Just pick one of our 8 free resume templates and get started with your resume within minutes.
• Career Change Resume . Is your employment gap due to a career change? Learn how to write an awesome career change resume with these 9+ examples.
• What to Put on a Resume . Here are the most important sections to put on your resume and win the job.
• Resume Tips and Tricks . This article covers every single practical resume tip you’ll ever need to create a compelling CV.
• Essential Resume Skills . Want to stand out from other applicants? You’ll need to include the right skills on your resume. This article covers the most in-demand skills in 2024.
• Resume Examples . Struggling to write a resume for your field? This article covers resume examples for almost all popular roles in 2024, including jobs in IT, marketing, healthcare, and more.

FAQ on Employment Gaps 

Do you still have some questions on everything employment gap-related? Find your answers below!

#1. How long is too long of an employment gap?

Any employment gap on your resume that you can’t explain to recruiters can cast a shadow on your job application. 

That said, shorter periods of employment gaps (e.g. time between jobs, illness or injury recovery, etc.) are much more acceptable than, say, 3-year-long gaps in your recent work history. 

So, while there is no specific time limit for a super long employment gap, the longer it is, the harder it will be for recruiters to ignore it.

#2. Is an employment gap bad?

That entirely depends on the reason behind your employment gap. 

If your employment gap is due to illness, failed business, family emergency, and the like, then an employment gap is definitely not bad! All you need to do is be honest with the recruiters and prove that you’re a trustworthy employee. 

That said if your employment gap comes from less socially acceptable reasons, like serving time for a crime or being away in rehab, your employment gap will be more difficult to explain - and, in turn, can be more harmful to your job application.

#3. How do you explain a gap in employment due to being a stay-at-home parent?

Taking time off work to be a stay-at-home parent falls under family-related reasons for an employment gap. 

The best way to explain such an employment gap is to write down the exact period you were off, titling it as a “planned career break.” Underneath, you can include one or two sentences on why you took it (e.g. took three years off work to care for my growing children, who are now in elementary school). 

On top of that, you can also mention any personal projects or other work-related experiences you had over that period. For example, if you took some online classes or started a personal project, that’s a great way to inform recruiters that you weren’t completely idle during your employment gap.

#4. How do you explain a gap in employment due to COVID-19?

The COVID-19 pandemic cost 114 million people to lose their jobs over 2020. So, if you were infected and quarantined due to COVID-19 (or if you were unlucky and had more severe health issues due to the virus), then note that on your resume as an “illness-related employment gap” or simply due to COVID-19.  

In one or two sentences, you can explain you had to take a break from work due to COVID-19 and that you’re now fully recovered and ready to work again.

Similarly, if you were working for a business that got impacted due to COVID-19 (such as an airline company) you can, in one sentence, mention you were laid off due to the impact of the pandemic and mention what you did in the meanwhile to find a job or hone your skills. 

#5. Why do employers not like gaps in employment?

Employers don’t like gaps in employment when said gaps are due to criminality, abuse or addiction, or simple laziness. In such a case, employers assume you’re not a reliable employee and that you may demonstrate the same patterns of behavior while working for them.

On the other hand, if there is a reasonable explanation for your employment gap, employers won’t think twice about hiring you, as long as you’re a good fit for the job.

Key Takeaways 

And that’s a wrap! By now, you should know everything about employment gaps and how to tackle them so they don’t hurt your job application.

Before you go, here are the main points covered in this article:

• There are three places where you can explain an employment gap: on your resume, cover letter, and during your job interview. 
• To explain an employment gap on a resume, be honest, elaborate on the gap, show that you never stop learning, or use a different resume layout to remove the gap altogether. 
• Explain an employment gap on your cover letter by highlighting new skills and offering a valid explanation as to why you took it. 
• If you have to explain your employment gap during your interview, rehearse in advance, show confidence, and don’t badmouth your former employer. 
• Some valid reasons for an employment gap are family reasons, illnesses, and injuries, taking time to discover yourself or pursue your education, and even a failed business.

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How to Write a Cover Letter After a Gap in Employment

For many, an extended leave from the workforce can make the job application process especially daunting. Without recent experience, it can be difficult to build a convincing argument for why you are a better fit for your position of choice than other candidates. Knowing how to write a cover letter that effectively presents your skills and professional experience in this situation is critical.

More often than not, a traditional cover letter template will suit your needs—even if you’re not a professional writer. Before we examine tips on how to explain gaps in employment, let’s go over the basics of how to make a cover letter.

Create a simple cover letter outline.

Regardless of your current employment situation,  there are a few general guidelines all good cover letters should follow . These documents should be 3–4 paragraphs long and include a short introductory paragraph followed by 1–2 body paragraphs providing details on your skills, qualifications, experience, and achievements. Finally, you should conclude your cover letter with a short closing paragraph that includes your preferred phone number and an invitation to call you to discuss the opportunity further.

For a more detailed cover letter outline and additional guidance, check out our companion articles, “ Cover Letter Writing Dos and Don’ts ” or “ A Cover Letter That Works ,” which also includes a cover letter template you can use to create your own.

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Decide if you need to mention your employment gap.

This may be one of the more complicated choices you make with regards to your cover letter. Opinions vary widely on whether you should include an employment gap explanation or if you need to clarify why you have been unemployed for an extended period of time, but in the end there are two major factors to consider:

1. Is it relevant?  If you discovered a new passion for healthcare while attending to a sick relative, mentioning it will give your letter a personal touch that can set it apart from the rest. However, unless the reason for your gap in employment is directly related to the position you are applying for, consider leaving it out of your cover letter. If employers are interested in knowing your reasons, they can ask during an interview, when you will have the opportunity to explain the situation more fully.

2. How extensive is the gap?  Another point to consider when deciding if or how to explain gaps in employment is the length of time you were out of work. A few months of unemployment can be discussed in an interview without taking up precious real estate in your letter. By contrast, if you have been out of work for several years, you’ll need to  give details on your absence from the workforce within your resume  and should at least mention it somewhere in the body of your cover letter (“After caring for my ailing parents over the past four years, I am eager to return to the workforce and utilize my newfound skills as a patient advocate”).

What to avoid:  Take care not to focus on the unemployment itself. Even if it led to a time of self-discovery and/or you were raising a family, this information doesn’t need to be the primary focus of your cover letter. You also should not feel the need to apologize for your employment gap. If you choose to talk about why you left the workforce, keep it brief (no more than a sentence). The person reading your cover letter cares about your qualifications and future value to the company more than anything about your time spent between jobs.

Instead of justifying why you should be offered an interview  despite  your jobless period, concentrate on the skills and/or background you have that will positively influence the organization.

Research how to make a cover letter that speaks directly to your prospective employer.  

Examine the company’s website, social media presence, and job ad, and reach out to any contacts you might have within the organization to find out more about its culture and values . Strategize how to write a cover letter that exemplifies these qualities while highlighting your talents and achievements. If possible, specify how your experience will be helpful for particular processes or efforts within the organization; it will prove just how motivated and invested you are in this opportunity!

What to avoid: It can be easy to dismiss professional achievements if they occurred far enough in the past, but passing these up for a more recent—but less relevant—activity would be a mistake. Likewise, you shouldn’t feel like you must only highlight examples from your experience in the field. A mix of both can give your cover letter balance and offer broader insight into your capabilities. The key is to make the best case for why the prospective employer should interview/hire you.

Don’t ignore your past work experience. An achievement from earlier in your career can still have a place on your cover letter, especially if it’s directly relevant to the position you’re pursuing.

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Highlight the ways you have maintained and enhanced your skills.

Employers are most concerned with what you can bring to their organization. When choosing what to highlight in your cover letter, consider any volunteering you have done recently (are you active in the PTA? Do you serve your community as a volunteer firefighter?) or extra training/workshops you have participated in while unemployed. Did you add new skills or expand your expertise in ways that would benefit your future employer? For example, “As room parent, I organized events for classes of 18–24 children and their parents, coordinating with the PTA Treasurer and teacher for scheduling and budget planning.”

What to avoid: Even if you don’t offer a specific employment gap explanation, the person reading your application will likely notice it. Don’t ignore that time in your life or try to sweep it under the rug; make sure you include at least one example of how you’ve kept your skills sharp. Make it clear that you are prepared to rejoin the working world and contribute to the company. And if you haven’t been engaged in any volunteer efforts or continuing education, start now! It will prove that you are motivated and proactive.

No matter how you choose to approach your employment gap on your cover letter, the most important thing is to highlight the ways you can help a prospective employer. A big part of knowing how to write a cover letter is customizing the document for the specific position. Many employers are willing to look past a gap in employment for a candidate that has the right attitude and the skills needed for the open position.

Keeping this information in mind will help you write a good cover letter to explain your employment history. For more tips on how to write a cover letter, check out our Job Seeker Resource Center , or create an account and use our automated cover letter builder.

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8 Examples: Confidently Explain Employment Gaps on Your Resume

By Status.net Editorial Team on November 9, 2023 — 12 minutes to read

• Understanding Employment Gaps Part 1
• Types of Employment Gaps Part 2
• Best Practices for Explaining Gaps in Employment Part 3
• How to Explain Short Term Gaps Part 4
• How to Explain Long Term Gaps Part 5
• Explaining Gaps Due to Personal Reasons Part 6
• Addressing Gaps Due to Job Searching Part 7
• How to Address Employment Gaps due to COVID-19 Part 8
• Dealing with Gaps due to Freelance or Contract Work Part 9
• Explaining Gaps Due to Sabbatical Part 10

Part 1 Understanding Employment Gaps

Employment gaps can happen for various reasons, such as personal issues, health problems, or unexpected layoffs. It’s essential to know that gaps in your career history aren’t necessarily negative. When writing your resume, explaining these gaps in a positive and honest way can help potential employers understand your situation better.

• One way to address employment gaps is by highlighting your experiences and achievements during those periods. For instance, if you went back to school, mention the degree or certification you earned. Similarly, if you volunteered during your time off, emphasize the skills you developed in that role.
• Another tactic is to use a functional or skill-based resume format instead of the traditional chronological one. In this approach, you focus on your skills and experiences rather than listing your work history chronologically. By doing so, you can draw attention to your abilities and minimize the spotlight on your employment gaps.
• When listing dates on your resume, consider using only the years and not the months. This strategy makes transitions between jobs appear smoother and can help to draw less attention to gaps. Besides, some career experts believe that employers are more concerned with your skills and accomplishments than your employment timeline.

In your cover letter, you can address longer gaps proactively by providing context and expressing your enthusiasm for returning to the workforce. Remember to emphasize your relevant skills and the ways you’ve stayed up to date in your industry.

During my time off, I decided to pursue my passion for graphic design. I took online courses, honed my skills, and even completed several freelance projects. This experience not only allowed me to explore a new field but also taught me valuable time-management and client-communication techniques. I’m eager to bring these newfound skills and my renewed motivation to a position at your company.

Part 2 Types of Employment Gaps

Recognizing the type of employment gap you have is the first step in addressing it effectively. Let’s take a look at some common types of gaps in your work history:

1. Layoffs or downsizing: If you were let go due to company-wide layoffs or downsizing, this is a common situation that hiring managers will understand. Be ready to explain the circumstances in a concise manner.

2. Personal choice: Choosing to take a break to fulfill a personal goal, like traveling, pursuing a hobby, or focusing on family can be explained in a positive way. Be sure to highlight any skills or experiences you gained during this time.

3. Health issues: If you had to take time off due to an illness or medical issue, make sure to explain your recovery and eventual readiness to return to work. There’s no need to disclose private medical information, but assuring the employer that you’re now in good health is key.

4. Going back to school: Showing an investment in your education and development is generally seen as a positive move. Just emphasize how the new knowledge and skills you gained will benefit your future employer.

5. Freelance or contract work: If you’ve been working on a project-by-project basis, your resume may appear to have gaps. Make sure to clarify that you were still active in the job market, and if possible, list notable projects to demonstrate your professional experience.

Part 3 Best Practices for Explaining Gaps in Employment

Focus on the positive.

When addressing gaps in your resume, frame your explanation around your strengths and acquired skills. Highlight any relevant experiences and achievements during your time off, like volunteering, freelance work, or professional development courses. Maintain a confident and positive outlook throughout your explanation, keeping the focus on your professional growth.

Honesty is the Best Policy

Be straightforward and honest when explaining your employment gap. You don’t need to provide every single detail, but giving a clear and concise reason is better than evasion. Employers appreciate sincerity, so avoid creating fictional stories or excuses. Simple explanations such as taking care of a family member, personal health, or traveling the world can suffice.

Show You’ve Been Productive

Demonstrate how you’ve stayed productive during your time away from work. Examples could include learning new skills, earning a certification, or joining a professional organization. Prove that you’ve used your time productively and are now ready to apply your enhanced skillset in the workforce.

Tailor Your Explanation

Consider the specific job you’re applying for and tailor your gap explanation accordingly. Align the skills or experiences you gained during your time off with the requirements of the job position. This demonstrates to the employer that even in your absence, you’ve managed to stay relevant and valuable to the industry.

Part 4 How to Explain Short Term Gaps

Skill building during short-term gaps.

When you have short-term gaps in your employment history, it’s helpful to highlight any skills you’ve gained or improved during that time. Employers appreciate candidates who take the initiative to stay productive even when not employed. Include any online courses, certifications, or self-learning projects you’ve completed during the period.

For example, if you had a 3-month gap and completed a coding bootcamp, mention this in your resume or cover letter. Briefly describe how the newly acquired skill can be valuable to the company, demonstrating that you have put your time to good use and are a functional asset.

Example of Explaining Short-Term Gaps

How to explain a short-term gap in your employment history in the cover letter of your job application:

“Between May and August 2022, I found myself between jobs in the graphic design field. However, I took advantage of this time to further develop my skills and stay updated with the industry’s latest trends. I completed an online course on UX/UI design, and I’m excited to bring these newly acquired skills to your team. This experience has expanded my expertise and can greatly enhance my contributions as a graphic designer.”

By addressing the gap in a positive and honest manner, you show potential employers your ability to adapt, learn, and grow even when facing challenges in your career path.

Part 5 How to Explain Long Term Gaps

Mention relevant activities during long-term gaps.

When addressing long-term gaps in your resume, focus on highlighting any relevant activities you participated in during that period. These might include freelance projects, volunteering, attending workshops or conferences, or taking online courses. By showcasing these efforts, you demonstrate to potential employers that you stayed active and continued to develop your skills despite the gap.

For example, if you took a two-year break to raise a child but completed an online course in project management, you can mention this in your resume or cover letter. This way, you’re emphasizing the transferable skills you acquired during your time off, making your gap less of a concern for recruiters.

Example of Explaining Long-Term Gaps

“From 2019-2021, I stepped away from the workforce to focus on my family. During this time, I was dedicated to staying current in my industry and strengthening my skills. I completed an online course in project management and volunteered at a local nonprofit, where I managed their social media accounts. These experiences have honed my ability to multitask and communicate effectively, and I’m excited to apply these skills in my next role.”

Part 6 Explaining Gaps Due to Personal Reasons

Coping with health issues.

If you’ve taken time off to deal with health issues, it’s important to be honest but also tactful when addressing this on your resume. You don’t need to reveal specific details about your medical condition. Instead, you can simply state that you took time off for personal health reasons and focus on the skills, qualifications, and accomplishments you’ve achieved during your career.

Raising a Family

When explaining a gap in your resume due to raising a family, be straightforward, but also highlight any relevant skills or experiences you gained during this time. Emphasize transferable skills, such as time management, organization, and problem-solving, that would be valuable in the workplace. Mention any volunteer work or part-time jobs you had while caring for your family.

Example of Explaining Personal Gaps

Let’s say you took a two-year break to raise your child. On your resume or cover letter, you could write something like:

“From 2020-2022, I took a hiatus from my professional career to focus on raising my child. During this time, I honed my skills in time management, multitasking, and problem-solving, and volunteered as a committee member for my local parent-teacher association. I’m now eager to return to the workforce and utilize these skills in a professional environment.”

Part 7 Addressing Gaps Due to Job Searching

If your employment gap was due to a job search, mention it briefly but confidently in your cover letter.

You can write something along the lines of, “I took time off to explore new opportunities and ensure that my next role would be a good fit for my skillset and career goals.”

Focus on the positive aspects of your job search. Even if you didn’t have a full-time job during the gap, you likely gained valuable skills and experiences. Highlight volunteer work, freelance projects, or courses you took during your job search. These activities can demonstrate your commitment to self-improvement while reinforcing that you remained active and engaged during your time off.

Part 8 How to Address Employment Gaps due to COVID-19

COVID-19 has caused unprecedented disruptions in many industries, leading to substantial employment gaps for many workers. To address this, you can briefly mention the pandemic as the reason for the gap by including a note on your resume or discussing it in your cover letter. Employers are usually understanding of circumstances caused by the pandemic.

Due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a six month gap in my employment history between March 2020 and September 2020. As many businesses were required to shut down or drastically reduce operations during this time, I was temporarily laid off from my role as an administrative assistant. I have stayed active by volunteering in my community and pursuing online courses to develop new skills.

Part 9 Dealing with Gaps due to Freelance or Contract Work

Presenting freelance work.

When you have gaps in your employment history because of freelance or contract work, don’t worry! You can include it on your resume in a way that showcases your skills and experience. You can create a section named “Freelance and Contract Work” on your resume. List the projects you have worked on, the clients you have worked for, and your achievements in these assignments. This way, you demonstrate your relevant skills and show that you have been actively working during those gaps.

Example of Explaining Freelance Gaps

Freelance and Contract Work (2017-2019)

Web Designer / Developer

• Worked with five clients to design and develop websites, resulting in increased web traffic and improved user experience.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to provide customized web solutions for small and medium-sized businesses.
• Utilized HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to create responsive websites that adapt to different devices and browsers.

In this example, you are emphasizing the skills you gained during your freelance work and presenting them as valuable experiences. Make sure to include any significant accomplishments or projects you completed during this time, so employers can see that you’re a flexible and adaptable professional.

Part 10 Explaining Gaps Due to Sabbatical

Taking a sabbatical can actually be a positive aspect in your professional life. When explaining this gap on your resume, focus on the skills and knowledge you gained during your time off. Emphasize how these experiences contribute to your growth as a professional and can benefit future employers. For instance, if you traveled, learned a new language, or volunteered, mention how such experiences enhanced your creativity, adaptability, or leadership abilities. Furthermore, be honest about your reasons for taking a sabbatical, as transparency will make it easier for potential employers to appreciate your journey.

Example of Explaining Sabbatical Gaps

During my time away from the workforce, I took a six-month sabbatical to explore new cultures and learn a new language. This enriching experience not only allowed me to gain fluency in Spanish but also provided me with valuable insights into different work environments and business practices. With this knowledge, I am confident that I can bring fresh perspectives and increased adaptability to the team at (Company Name).

Remember to tailor your explanation to the specific job you’re applying for and how your sabbatical experiences relate to the role. This way, you can effectively turn your employment gap into a strong selling point.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are common reasons for employment gaps.

There are various reasons people may have employment gaps in their career. Some common reasons include layoffs or company downsizing, personal health issues, family caregiving responsibilities, time off for personal growth or travel, and furthering education or professional development.

What’s a good way to explain a career break for parenting?

Many people take career breaks for parenting, and it’s perfectly acceptable to explain this in your resume or cover letter. Be honest about your reasons and focus on the skills and experiences you gained during this time, such as time management, multitasking, and problem-solving, which can translate well to your professional life.

Is a short gap in employment considered negative?

A short gap of few months is typically not considered negative by most employers. Job search and transition periods are expected. However, if you have several short gaps, focus on demonstrating consistency in your career and highlighting your skills, experiences, and achievements to minimize any potential concerns.

How can you use a cover letter to address employment gaps?

A cover letter provides an opportunity to address your employment gaps by offering context and explaining the reasons behind those gaps. Briefly discuss the reason for the gap, mention any skills or experiences you gained during that time, and express your enthusiasm for getting back into the workforce. Showcasing your commitment and eagerness to contribute can help alleviate any concerns an employer may have.

Which resume format works best for covering employment gaps?

A functional resume format is often recommended for those with employment gaps, as it emphasizes skills and accomplishments, rather than listing work experience chronologically. Group your skills based on the type of work you’re applying for and include any relevant experiences or projects that showcase those abilities. This format can help shift the focus away from the employment gaps and towards your qualifications and value as a candidate.

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