Job interviews can be daunting, especially when you have gaps in your employment history. However, these gaps can often serve as opportunities to gain valuable skills that you can present to potential employers. Here are three practical examples of how to highlight skills gained during a gap in employment.
During a period of unemployment, you might have chosen to volunteer for a local charity or organization. This experience can be an excellent way to show that you were proactive in developing your skills.
You might say:
“During my six-month gap in employment, I volunteered at the local animal shelter. In this role, I managed social media campaigns to raise awareness and funds for the shelter. This experience helped me enhance my digital marketing skills and taught me how to engage with a community effectively. I also coordinated events, which improved my organizational and leadership abilities. I believe these skills will directly benefit your team, especially in your upcoming marketing initiatives.”
If you spent your time during the gap taking online courses to improve or update your skills, this is a great way to illustrate your commitment to professional development.
You might say:
“During my year-long employment gap, I focused on enhancing my project management skills through various online courses, including a certification in Agile Project Management. This not only deepened my understanding of project workflows but also equipped me with tools to lead teams more effectively. I’m excited to bring this knowledge to your organization, particularly as you look to streamline projects and improve efficiency.”
If you took time off for caregiving, it’s important to frame this experience positively, emphasizing the transferable skills you developed.
You might say:
“During my two-year employment gap, I served as a caregiver for my elderly parent. This role required immense patience, strong communication, and problem-solving skills as I managed appointments, coordinated with healthcare providers, and ensured their well-being. These experiences have made me more empathetic and organized, qualities that I believe are essential for the customer service role I’m applying for. I’ve learned how to handle stressful situations with grace, which I think would greatly benefit your team.”
By preparing thoughtful and specific examples of how you’ve gained skills during your employment gaps, you can turn a potentially challenging topic into a strong selling point in your job interviews.