How to Handle Gaps in Employment on Your Resume

Key Concepts:

• Resume gaps (specifically 9-month gaps)
• Career profile/summary section of a resume
• Chronological resume format
• Addressing gaps in the middle of a work history
• Transparency vs. omission on a resume

Handling a Nine-Month Resume Gap

The video addresses how to handle a nine-month gap in a resume, offering different strategies based on the gap's location and reason.

1. Gap in the Career Profile (Most Recent):

• Omission: The speaker suggests that for a recent nine-month gap, it's often best not to mention it at all in the career profile. The rationale is that nine months is a relatively short period.
• Optional Explanation: If the candidate wants to address it, they can briefly state the reason (e.g., "Returning to the workforce after nine months of family care"). However, this is presented as optional.

2. Gap in the Middle of Work History:

• Year-Based Formatting: If the resume uses year-based formatting (e.g., 2023-2024), a nine-month gap spanning across those years may not even be noticeable.
• Addressing Questions Directly: If asked about the gap during an interview, the speaker advises being straightforward: "I was off for nine months for [reason], no big deal."

3. Longer Gaps (e.g., Two Years) and Justifiable Reasons:

• Transparency with Context: For longer gaps, especially those with a clear and positive reason (e.g., full-time MBA), the speaker recommends being transparent. Example: "Between 2009 and 2010, took MBA full-time, graduated [date]."
• Highlighting Value: The key is to frame the gap in a way that adds value to the candidate's profile.

4. Gaps Due to Job Searching:

• Omission is Key: If the gap was simply due to being out of work and searching for a job, the speaker strongly advises not mentioning it on the resume.

Key Arguments and Perspectives:

• Context Matters: The best approach depends on the length of the gap, its location in the work history, and the reason for the gap.
• Transparency vs. Omission: There's a balance between being transparent and omitting information that could be perceived negatively.
• Focus on Positives: Frame gaps in a way that highlights positive aspects or skills gained during that time.

Notable Quotes:

• "If it's a nine-month gap, I wouldn't even say anything in the career profile."
• "I was off for nine months for whatever, no big deal."
• "If the gap was I was just out of work and I was looking for a job then just don't say anything."

Synthesis/Conclusion:

The video provides practical advice on handling resume gaps, particularly nine-month gaps. The core message is to assess the situation carefully and choose the approach that best presents the candidate in a positive light. Omission is often the preferred strategy for short gaps or those due to job searching, while transparency with context is recommended for longer gaps with justifiable reasons. The key is to be prepared to address any questions about the gap directly and confidently.