How to explain gaps in your resume
The power of self-reflection and time well spent.
Someone recently asked me how they should explain a gap in their resume during an interview. They specifically had taken a gap year in college and were unsure what to say about it.
My biggest takeaway from that question is that we, as people, are always learning.
No matter what you have done with it, time spent is valuable because it allows you to gain perspective.
So you may have taken some time off, but I am confident you learned something during that time, either about others or yourself.
If you are unsure what you’ve learned, it is time to reflect.
Before you go to your next interview, set aside some time to journal. During this journaling sesh, write about everything you did during that gap in your resume. Write out everything concrete that you did and try to think of any possible thing you learned from the experiences. Even if it seems silly or not important, write it down anyway.
I am sure you took more away from it than you think you did.
Once you have your list you can begin to identify skills and life lessons that are relevant to the job you're looking for, and boom, you now have some great things to say about the gap in your resume.
I can not stress enough that as people we are always learning, so even if you have taken time away from your studies or work, you took something away from the experience, and that is valuable.
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About The Author
Hi! I’m Marianna. I can help you rock your next presentation. And yes, I’ll give you LOTS of practice and feedback. I have coaching on demand available!
I make public speaking easier (and fun!) for my clients. In addition to Presentation Skills workshops, I offer executive coaching and Keynote speeches. To learn more, schedule a call with me.