From taking time off to help a loved one to industry-wide layoffs, to taking care of a newborn, to career changes, and more, there is a myriad of reasons why one may take time off or be out of work for an extended period of time. For many, this gap in employment is worrisome when looking for new opportunities, as recruiters and hiring managers may question or be concerned about any prolonged periods that you were not in the workforce. However, this is a common scenario and one that can easily be addressed to help you land a new position during the interview process.
Why is this such a common conversation during interviews? For one, employers want to gain an understanding of why you were out of work. Did you leave for personal reasons or was it due to something out of your control? They will be interested in knowing if you were fired, if you resigned, and how you left. Was it on good or bad terms with your boss or manager? Was it voluntary or involuntary? Why did it take you an extended period of time before finding another opportunity? Whatever the case, having a clear and concise explanation will make a difference to your overall chances of being hired.
With that said, our team has put together some of the best ways to handle those inevitable questions about gaps that you have in your employment history. Let’s get started!
Be confident and truthful in your response
First and foremost, it is of utmost importance that you reply to all interview questions in a genuine and truthful manner. When the question comes up regarding your lapse in employment, being nervous, sounding scripted, or not providing the true facts will be obvious to the interviewer and will be considered a red flag.
Discuss how you were productive during those times away from employment
Regardless of the reason, showing that you were productive and resourceful during any gaps can help you get hired. For example, if you were off for personal reasons and taking care of a newborn, going into some detail about your new busy schedule taking care of her can be communicated. If you were not working for many months after being laid off, explain how you improved yourself during that time. Perhaps you went back to school, volunteered, took online courses, or learned something new about the industry you work in. Interviewers do not want to hear about someone that sat around and was not useful during those breaks.
Don’t provide unnecessary details or spend too much time discussing your gaps
Get straight to the point and avoid long, drawn-out conversations or stories. First off, interviewers only have a set amount of time to chat with you. Secondly, your focus should be on selling yourself for the open position. The more time you spend discussing employment gaps, the less time you have to explain your desire to work at the company and your qualifications that make you a great fit.
Do not become defensive
Many interviewees put up a guard and become defensive regarding any gaps in employment, especially if layoffs or terminations are involved. It is critical that you do not become defensive when talking about it as it will be a red flag and likely lower your chances of being hired. Instead, take on the questions with a calm and intelligent demeanor. Succinctly answer the questions and reassure that any gaps will not affect your performance or commitment moving forward.
Assure that the situation is no longer a factor
Recruiters and managers understand that gaps can happen and are a common subject. However, they will feel better knowing that whatever situation youo were in that caused the gap was temporary and is no longer a factor that they will have to deal with. You will want to let them rest assured that you are ready to work with them for the foreseeable future and that you will not be taking time off again. This assurance will help move the conversation to other important matters.
Prepare for your interview and for the employment gap conversation
Lastly, it is important to prepare your thoughts prior to your interview. For example, based on all of the tips above, write down your response for when an interviewer brings up any gaps in your employment history. Another preparation tip is to role-play this question and conversation with your friend or family member. This will allow you to fine-tune your response and help you memorize what it is that you would like to say. Proper preparation also gives you the confidence to take the question head-on and to have a well-thought-out answer when it arrives.
Clearly, employment gaps are commonly seen and will always be discussed by your potential employer. Being consistent, confident, and having a clear plan for answering these questions will help improve your chances of getting hired. Be sure to use these tips to help land you your next role with a great organization!
