Career gaps happen. People take time off. Life does its thing. Whether it’s raising a family, dealing with health issues, travelling, studying, being made redundant, or simply needing a break — it’s normal. And it doesn’t make you any less hireable.
But we know that explaining a gap can feel uncomfortable. You don’t want to overshare, but you also don’t want it to be a red flag on your CV.
So, how do you explain a career break without sounding defensive, apologetic or like you’ve been living under a rock?
1. Address it directly
Whatever you do, don’t ignore it. Leaving a big gap unexplained only invites assumptions — and that’s never what you want in an interview.
Instead, be upfront. Add a short line to your CV or cover letter that outlines the break clearly and confidently.
Try this:
2021–2023: Career break to raise family. Ready to return to work and bring my previous experience, along with the skills gained during this time, to a new role.
2022–2024: Took time out for personal reasons. Spent this time upskilling through online courses and volunteering, and am now fully focused on returning to full-time work.
You’re not giving your life story. You’re giving context.
2. Reframe the break as part of your journey
A gap isn’t a void. You still did things. You gained life experience, resilience, maybe even new skills. If you volunteered, studied, freelanced, or supported others — include it. And if you didn’t? That’s okay too.
You don’t need to justify the time. But it helps to show that you’re reflective and ready to re-engage.
Try this in interviews:
“That time gave me the space to reset and reflect on what I wanted next. I’m coming back to work with more clarity, energy and commitment than before.”
3. Update your LinkedIn and CV so they tell the full story
Leaving the gap unexplained makes it more obvious. A short, confident summary is much better than hoping no one notices.
If you’ve done any relevant courses, freelance work, mentoring, or even personal development (especially if you’re switching industries), include it. It shows momentum — and that matters.
4. Prepare for the question — but don’t dwell on it
If an interviewer brings up the gap, don’t panic. They’re not trying to catch you out. They’re just trying to understand your timeline and what’s brought you to this point.
Keep your answer short, honest, and steer the conversation back to the role.
Try this:
“Yes, I took a break to look after my children — and now I’m at a point where I’m ready and excited to get stuck into something new. I’ve been keeping my skills fresh and I’m confident I’ll be able to hit the ground running.”
Then move the conversation forward. What matters now is what you’re bringing to the table — not the time you spent away from it.
🚫 What NOT to do
❌ Don’t apologise — you haven’t done anything wrong.
❌ Don’t overexplain — you can be honest without going into every detail. Keep it clear, simple and focused on where you are now.
❌ Don’t hide it — gaps aren’t shameful. They’re life.
A career gap doesn’t define you — but how you handle it can say a lot.
Confidence, self-awareness, and clarity will always go further than a perfect timeline. So own your story. Gaps and all.
And if you're ready to start your next chapter? We’re here for it.
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