Explaining Resume Gaps

Resume gaps can be red flags for potential employers, especially if you have a lag of six months or more in your work history. Gaps can prevent you from getting the all-important interview, or make you stumble within the interview process.

Washington-based journalist Benét J. Wilson reveals that journalists with large resume gaps are more and more common, especially with the advent of digital media, downsizing and freelance work. Lengthy resume gaps may make it harder, but not impossible, to land an interview. However, those issues can be fixed with a little effort.

Volunteer your time to show you were at least active during your unemployment or downtime. Improve your skills by teaching kids how to read or write, or serve as a tutor to local charities that specialize in such things. The key to volunteer opportunities is having someone vouch for your recent work ethic. Did you show up on time for your assigned duties? Were you nice to the other volunteers?

Maintain your relationships with former supervisors so they paint a positive picture of your job performance. A glowing review from an old boss may lessen the blow of resume gaps. Even if you didn't like your former manager, at least try to mend fences to get that professional reference.

Freelancing is a big word, and it takes some time to do this. However, you can create a virtual paper trail with your name and face to show you kept up with industry trends, voiced valid opinions and maintained professional relationships during your lack of employment. Create a business name, a letterhead and a list of services. Start a blog on one of several free blog websites. Tout your blog on your social media accounts. LinkedIn has a blog feature, so use it wisely. Keeping busy will make it easier to explain resume gaps than doing nothing.

Do not make any negative remarks about your former employer. Everyone goes through tough career times. Turn your negative experience into a positive. You got to spend more time with your kids, explore owning your own business and maintain contacts with your network. If you can prove all of this to your future employer, more power to you. Turning negatives into positives shows you have what it takes to maintain a good attitude in tough times, an attribute employers like.

Explanations for resume gaps do not have to be lengthy. Five or six words on your resume should suffice, and if your prospective manager wants to know more, he or she will ask in the interview. A lack of explanation has a greater chance of becoming a talking point anywhere in the job search process.

Explaining resume gaps with regards to your work history does not have to destroy your chances of earning a new position. Showing that you tried to stay active, relevant and upbeat can set you apart from other candidates. Overcoming adversity shows your new boss you mean business.

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