Employment Gaps Don’t Have to Be Craters

Before the economic crash, employment gaps were often seen as the kiss of death. But a long string of layoffs, particularly in the financial sector, have made gaps commonplace. However, just because you’re not alone if you’re trying to face your gaps doesn’t mean you get a free pass. A little positive self-marketing is still a good idea.

The smartest first step in helping employment gaps seem less gaping is to fill them with other activities. This proves that you didn’t just sit around the whole time waiting for something to happen, but were instead engaged, proactive, and interested. If you feel lost when trying to decide how to fill the void, don’t despair. There are plenty of options available.

First, broaden your mind. Consider traveling far and wide to visit different financial centers, reconnect and network in person with old contacts, and attend trade shows. You can also think locally and volunteer with a non-profit organization, which is a great resume booster and also good for the soul. You could also take classes to further your financial and other related interests, which will bolster your industry awareness and keep skills sharp.

Next, consider grouping your gap time into different sections to better illustrate how you filled the time. This will highlight your activity within the gap rather than the gap itself.

When interviewing, don’t feel pressured to bring up the gap and make it front and center. Let your interviewer take the lead, and when asked about any work hiatuses, don’t be tempted to lie. Use the question as an opportunity to highlight the things you accomplished during that time, be brief and succinct, and move on.

Employment gaps aren’t the end of the world. Use gaps to your full advantage and capture the opportunity to further your skills and your career. When the time comes to explain, you’ll have lots of positive things to say and can then focus on your skills and other work experience instead.