Having a child is probably the most common cause to take a break from work. But it’s not the only one. There is also illness, accidents, job cuts, sabbaticals or being self-employed for a while.

Whatever the reason might be in your case, if the gap in your resume is too long, someone in charge of your application at a company will take negative notice of it.  I’d say a gap of one year is the limit for most employers and recruiters, after that you must properly explain yourself in order to still have a chance for consideration. You need to show that you are still qualified, that you still have up to date knowledge in your field and that there is nothing about your personality to worry about.

But in most cases we can assume that what is done is done.  Here’s how to deal with it.

First of all, don’t write about it in your cover letter. You don’t want to explain anything before they ask you. Self-confidence means not being apologetic. But mentioning your gap prominently will be perceived as an apology.

Secondly, be cool. If someone asks you about that huge gap during the job interview, be concise. Just say “I made a trip around the world.” and that’s it. Don’t add two paragraphs how that always was your dream unless they ask you why you did it. Chances are they are rather jealous or interested. You might just have scored a conversational topic that will smooth-sail you through the rest of the interview.

Remember: He who justifies himself, accuses himself.

If you have no good explanation for your break – for example you’ve simply been munching off your parents’ or looking for a job – don’t make one up. But it’s okay to state negative things more positively.

After all “I was considering my options” sounds much better than “I couldn’t find a job”.

Photo from: http://www.regents.ac.uk/images/RC-MindTheGap-byGiovanniSacca-fullsize.jpg

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