Traditionally, a resume gap has been viewed as a bad thing, but that’s not necessarily the case anymore. Much like how COVID-19 has changed other aspects about the World of Work, it’s also changed how employers view gaps on resumes. Instead of focusing on previous job titles and experience, recruiters have been evaluating candidates based on their overall skill sets. However, even though companies are a lot more flexible and empathetic when assessing job seekers, you’ll still need to explain why you’ve been unemployed and what you’ve been doing in the meantime. Here are some tips on what you can do during an interview to turn a resume gap into an opportunity.
Acknowledge That the Gap Exists
If you don’t want prospective employers to judge your qualifications based on a gap, then you shouldn’t either. Don’t try to hide or lie about a period of unemployment. A seasoned HR rep or recruiter will easily spot errors and inaccuracies on a resume.
The pandemic has taught us all about shared experiences, and prospective employers are bound to understand why there’s a gap on your resume during such a unique time, so be open and honest.
Prepare to Be Brief
The more elongated the explanation, the more concern it brings to the surface. Be on point, substantive, and succinct. Prepare and practice talking about your periods of unemployment. Ideally, you can be clear, confident, and concise in your delivery; focus on the facts, and make sure to end on an optimistic note.
Explain What You’ve Been Doing
Show that you’ve put your “time off” to good use. Many individuals have still been working hard as at-home teachers, primary caregivers, and volunteers. No matter how you’ve filled a resume gap, you can put a positive spin on it during an interview.
For example, have your time management, organization, or budgeting skills improved as a result of these new responsibilities? Talk about what you’ve learned during this time, whether personal, social, or professional.
Show Interest in Getting Back to Work
Once the gap on your resume has been addressed, it’s time to steer the conversation back to your desire and ability to do the job you’re interviewing for. There are a few ways you can express excitement:
- Discuss the organization’s recent accomplishments to prove that you understand its mission and evolution.
- Ask what success looks like moving forward for the company and the role to show your investment in its future.
- Ask questions about the company’s culture and values to better understand if they align with your own.
Periods of unemployment — especially those brought on by uncontrollable circumstances — are nothing to be ashamed of. When you’re asked to explain a resume gap during your next interview, follow these best practices to show employers and talent access professionals how you’ve effectively used your time outside the office.