How do you answer a job application question Explain ANY gaps in your employment?

Answer 1

The key is being honest without looking bad. There are many reasons for job gaps. Stay at home parent, taking care of ill family members, not being mature in your career decisions and etc... but please follow with an explanation such as, I was not mature in my career decisions but I have since grown in that area and am ready to prove my initiative and drive to become successful in a career with this company.

Answer 2

One might explain gaps in one's unemployment by saying that he was employed. Adding the names of the places where he was working and listing the phone numbers would help anyone who was wishing to verify that employment do so more easily. Hope that helps.

Answer 3

This is difficult. You could consider a resume that doesn't emphasize dates, but concentrates on various areas of expertise instead. Perhaps you were in a situation where you could honestly justify saying that you had family considerations to attend to-- caring for elderly parents or relatives who were ill. It's particularly difficult if you were in prison. You might find employment consultants who could give you some ideas, or possibly good leads. They may be hard to find, but there are companies that are good about hiring people who are coming from that situation.

Answer 4

When asked on a job application or an interview the question 'Explain ANY gaps in your employment', answer simply and honestly. You do not need to explain in great detail or give a long explanation, but be prepared to answer a follow-up question. You can also state a positive action you took in between jobs. Here are some common reasons for gaps in employment--but remember, don't lie:

• ended a job to attend school
• you lost a job, but volunteered x days a week while looking for a new job
• a family emergency or illness required you to be at home, but you took internet classes during that time
• a severe illness or injury prevented you from working from __ to __
• high local unemployment
• company downsizing

If you were fired, think carefully about what you will say with the best possible wording--and, what you learned from that.

Answer 5

Further studies, perhaps, or overseas travel with a view to study.