GAPS in Employment: How to Navigate the Conversation
No matter when gaps in your career happen, it is important to know that you are not alone. “Over 50% of U.S. workers reported at least a one-month gap in the last five years” (Gillis 2026) Life happens: layoffs, family care, education, burnout, relocations. “The challenge isn’t the gap itself. It’s how you present it” (Gillis 2026)
- Honesty matters: addressing the gap openly and professionally helps you ‘control the narrative’
- Highlight growth during gap: even family care has transferrable skills that many do not give themselves credit for.
- Format strategically: a true employment gap is any period of six months or more when you weren’t formally employed.
- Recent gaps matter the most. Multiple gaps can lead to more questions.
- Extended gaps will require detailed explanations.
Above all, be prepared to speak to your growth during these gaps, and how you stayed updated on industry skills.
Experiencing an employment gap now? If possible, use that time to…
- Complete self-paced industry-related trainings or certifications, such as LinkedIn Learning, etc.
- Volunteer with community organizations – use your industry skills to benefit organizations that may not afford such services.
- Attend industry expos or events in your area.
- Make the most of any job you do have: even if it’s “just a paycheck” (or insurance) – make it relevant to your career by focusing on skill-growth. Remember – “soft skills” are applicable in every position.
- Attend University alumni events, professional organization events, or even book discussions. Activate your network by showing up for peers and colleagues, then follow up on LinkedIn to cultivate those connections.