Gaps In Work History
Gaps in your CV / Resume can be awkward.
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Working gaps in your career history can stand out in a CV / Resume.
The worst thing you can do is try to hide them.
Recruiters aren't stupid and they can add up. It's a guaranteed way to miss out on a job interview. If you get the job and they subsequently find out, then falsifying information on a CV or "misleading" them in the interview may be used as grounds for failing a probationary period and hence dismissal.
So what can you do?
One option which works for a long career with only a few months of non-working time is to miss out the months on your career history, showing only the years. This instantly conceals short working gaps. However, be prepared to be challenged on this in an interview.
For example, many people cover a gap by saying they "went travelling". This, in itself, is often seen favourably. However, be prepared to be asked about your experiences!
If the gaps are legitimate, you could simply explain them.
Think about what you were doing during that time. Were you developing any new skills that might be of benefit to future employers?
Gaps in work history or career breaks are more acceptable in today's commercial climate, than in the past.
It is common to take a sabbatical to travel or study. Women routinely return to work after maternity breaks. Redundancies at all levels mean that more people have experienced unemployment in this challenging job market.
The key is to show what you did with your time.
Think about the new skills you learned. There will be some: just think laterally. What added value or personal characteristics can you offer an employer as a result of being out of work?
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