Explaining employment gaps on my resume?

Question

I have several gaps in my employment history where I was looking for work after college graduation. How can I explain this without it sounding bad?

Answer 1

2 ways to play it:

You could say you were doing something that couldn't really be disproved in any way. Could you realistically say you travelled for a short while? (not realistic if you've never been anywhere else cause they may ask you about places) - or volunteered somewhere?

Or if you say you spent the time looking for your first role - say you didn't find the role that was a good enough fit and that motivated you enough to make you want to give your very best. As you were at the beginning of your career you wanted to make sure you found the right job. That makes it sound like there may have been other offers that you turned down - without actually saying so.

Good luck.

Answer 2

FYI, those employment gaps aren't explained on your resume but rather during an interview. And it's a perfectly legitimate question. Plus, it all depends on how long a gap you've got.

For instance, taking several years off to raise young children isn't a negative at all and is commendable. But taking time off to "party" is not.

The KEY is to be honest when explaining those gaps. For example, if they were temp jobs, then that's easy because assignments start and end, and there can be periods where you don't have other work assignments.

Prospective employers are mainly interested in seeing that you've got a good work ethic and are a good worker. Gaps are common for many people, so the reason(s) for them must be something that an employer will say "Gee, that's understandable."

I, for example, had a gap when I moved out of state, and that's understandable. I needed to get settled in my new place and "get the lay of the land" first.

Answer 3

Just be honest. Did you have a job you didn't like? Could not find one in your field at a good pay? Most employers will not hold that against you, especially just after college gradutation, unless there are continuous gaps over many years.

Answer 4

your answer is found in the type of resume you write. you can use a targeted resume that will only show the kind of work experience and education you have that is pertenant to the position applied for. go to your public library and they will more than likely be able to help you write that type of resume.

Answer 5

I was looking for work after college and found no openings

that might work.

Answer 6

Just said what you were doing during those times. The way I do it, I just tell them... assisting family with a business, relocation, job searching. etc

Answer 7

hi
self employed contract
or more education

Answer 8

Be honest.