You’re updating your résumé and there it is. That stretch of time between roles.
And suddenly, you’re convinced it’s the only thing anyone will notice.
Hold on, y’all. Just because you have a gap in your résumé doesn’t mean you need to hit the panic button.
Maybe you stepped away to care for a family member. Your position was eliminated. Or you needed time to take care of yourself.
Those things happen. They don’t erase your experience or accomplishments. #FACT
Even LinkedIn recognizes that gaps happen. Its optional Career Break feature lets you add context directly in your profile’s Experience section.
So how do you handle it?
💼 Keep your explanation simple.
“I stepped away for family caregiving responsibilities” may be enough. Be honest and brief, but share only what you’re comfortable discussing.
💼 Include relevant experience.
Did you consult, volunteer, or complete coursework during that gap? Give it consideration. But don’t turn this personal chapter into a professional development project. Know what I mean?
💼 Move the conversation forward.
Address the gap, then connect your experience to the role:
“My position was eliminated due to a restructuring. I’m now ready for an opportunity to put my operations and team leadership experience to work. This role interests me because…”
Practice saying it out loud so you’re comfortable moving into what you do well.
The more you say it, the easier it gets.
Bottom line: Your résumé has a gap.
Also bottom line: Your experience still counts.
Give that part of your story some airtime, too. #letsgetyouhired
