Explain a gap in your resume honestly and calmly.
Say how long the gap was and why. You get a one-line resume entry and a short interview answer that states the facts, shows what you did and moves on to the job.
How it works
- Enter the length of the gap and the reason.
- Say what you did during it, even if it was not paid work.
- Get a resume line and an interview answer.
- Keep both short and honest.
Questions people ask
Do I have to explain a gap?
If it is more than a few months, a short, honest line helps. Do not over-explain or apologise.
What if the reason is personal, like health?
You can say 'personal reasons' or 'a health matter that is now resolved'. You do not owe details.
What counts as something I did during the gap?
Caring for family, learning, volunteering, freelance work, projects and training all count.
Resumes
How to explain an employment gap on a resume
Learn exact formats and wording to explain resume gaps from layoffs, caregiving, health issues or study without hurting your chances.
Interviews
How to explain a gap in employment in an interview
Short, confident scripts for explaining any employment gap in an interview, from caregiving to layoffs to health to travel.
Career change and restarts
How to re-enter the workforce after a long gap
Returning to work after years away is achievable with the right skill updates, a gap-honest resume, and a clear plan. Here is how to do it.