How do you explain a gap in work history on a resume? The gap is a result of personal injury in an accident.?

Question

the injury was a serious neck injury and i wonder if any potential employer would even consider hiring me with the knowlege that i have broken my neck.

Answer 1

I understand the dilemma you're facing as some one that has injuries myself. You need to be upfront and honest for your own sake. What if you have a work place injury? Don't say never. If that happens you will be seeing their doctors for a complete medical. As my barrister told me when I was worried about this same question...if you lie and your employer finds out, it's grounds for instant dismissal. If you hurt yourself again in a work place, you will not be covered for workers compensation because you lied. Even if they were to pay you , it could severely hurt your case.

A lot of jobs now ask on their employment forms have you had any previous injuries & illnesses or claims for workers comp. A lot also require you to undergo a medical before they will hire you. Now you and I both know you're not going to be able to fool a dr with your injury.

Answer 2

I have hired a lot of people over the years. The traits I look for first are honesty and sincerity. While I am not anxious to hire someone who has had a lot of "injuries" and missed time, I can accept an honest explanation of a gap. Tell a prospective employer the truth even if you don't think it is flattering. If you had an accident, they don't need every detail, but a quick illustration about what happened, how long you were off of work, and how you are doing now will be helpful. From an employer's standpoint, I am most concerned about whether or not you milked the injury and delayed your return to work while you collected insurance or worker's comp. After that, I want to know that you are OK and not going to cost me a bundle in health care claims for future problems.

Answer 3

I believe that a resume should list only your significant work and educational experiences. That can leave gaps. An employment application may require you to account for all periods (including the gap). An interviewer may inquire about any large gaps on your resume and is entitled to an honest answer. You should apply only for work for which you are physically fit (no heavy lifting?) that will cause you no harm. Your health records are personal however you may be required to have a pre-employment physical exam. Good luck.

Answer 4

I guess it would depend on the job you're applying for - if you have to lift over your head, that's a risk.
Most potential employers will accept that you are released to go back to work as long as the job would not create a risk to your health.
Be honest - or explain a bad accident and long recovery period - as long as you filled the gap with an explanation of no work, then it's better than showing a gap and did nothing until you decided to get another job.

Answer 5

You can simply state, it was for medical reasons. You can also say it was for personal reasons. You do not need to explain it any further, and they are not entitled to ask you for details.

Having gaps in the employment history IS a disadvantage, but not so much so today. There are large number of people let go because of slow down in economy.

The worst thing you can do here is lie. However, limiting the amount of information you give out is NOT the same thing as lying.

Answer 6

I dont see why an employer wouldnt hire you, an accident/injury is something totally unpredictable and shouldnt prevent you from reaching your career goals. Good luck!=) Unless you are asked why there is a gap in your employment history, i dont think its necessary to include it in your resume. If they ask, just be completely honest about it, we are all humans and things happen. Just build yourself with confidence and youll get the JOB!

Answer 7

Resume is something that describes your qualifications. Resume is something that serves the purpose of getting you to the interview, rather than explaining every stage of your life.

I wouldn't put injury on the resume. But I'd answer the question with all honesty at the interview, if asked.

Answer 8

I wouldn't bother. Just be prepared to answer any questions regarding the gap, should you be asked during the interview stage.

Your resume should be short and concise. Don't put anything on it that detracts from your past experience or future potential.

Answer 9

Tell them it was due to an injury caused by an accident. They have no right to know what was injured or how bad. They might require a medical clearance but only if they require one from all empolyees.

Answer 10

Explain it at the interview and I'm sure the potential employer will understand.