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By Lily Sachs on April 29th, 2022

Key Points:

  1. Understanding the Types of Employment Gaps
  2. Being Transparent – The Right Amount.
  3. Achievements
  4. Words of Advice from ProTek Partners

We understand that gaps in employment happen, we are all human here. However, there is a correct way to navigate the conversation with any potential employer you encounter. – & after the past few years, it’s common for most people to have experienced some sort of gap in their employment and for a recruiter to cover what you were doing in the absence of being employed. Both parties need to discuss the time of unemployment, and there’s a fitting way for candidates to address any interviewers’ concerns to play to their advantage.

Naturally, the employer or recruiter will be curious about whether your employment gap is something they should be concerned about or if it’s something easily explainable. Regrettably, without your explanation, your application could be discarded. So, if an employment gap applies to you, below are a few steps to keep in mind.


  1. Understanding the Types of Employment Gaps

Before you begin applying after a gap in work, it is crucial for you to understand what type of employment gap you identify with – this will help you prepare for any questioning along your hiring process. There are two types of employment gaps, involuntary and voluntary. Involuntary unemployment can consist of; being laid off or caring for a loved one that is ill, etc. Voluntary unemployment can consist of; taking time off to travel, raising a child, etc.

But worry not. No matter the gap, there is always a way to articulate that missing time in your resume without it being the reason an employer disregards your application.

2. Being Transparent – The Right Amount

Never try to hide your employment gap. First and foremost, candidness will always carry you further. Hiding anything from anyone isn’t a good way to get them on your side. Instead, be honest and explain the time taken off without justifying yourself. Your new potential employer or recruiter doesn’t need every detail regarding your unemployment. They just need the meat, and sharing too much could create a lasting impression you want to avoid during interviews.

3. Achievements

Staying busy during a time of unemployment will help boost the explanation of your employment gap. Whether it be involuntary or voluntary time-off, you should always let your potential future employer or recruiter know of the soft skills you honed or if any courses/certifications were completed. – Don’t leave out self-development either! Showing a potential employer dedication and resiliency is never a negative.

4. Words of Advice from ProTek Partners

Our final piece of advice; is explaining why you feel now is the right time to re-enter the workforce. While doing so, note all the positive outcomes from your time away from working and how those outcomes will help guide you through the new position you are applying for or interviewing with. – This will help get your interview back on track, and if this new employer requests a cover letter, go ahead and start your honest streak there. Just remember the same tips above apply to the written versions as well.


The main goal of mentioning your unemployment gap is to ease any of the interviewer’s worries. When you address those concerns, you’re not living in the past but looking towards the future. If you consider re-entering the workforce through a recruitment agency, stop and check out our blog for other helpful articles like Advice on How to Work Best with Recruiters.