How to Explain Work History Gaps in the Interview

How to Explain Work History Gaps in the InterviewHow to Explain Work History Gaps in the InterviewHow to Explain Work History Gaps in the InterviewNobody follows a seamless, unbroken career path. Just doesnt happen. Logically, it follows that everyone will eventually have an employment gap to explain at a job interview. And theres a simple, three-step method to explain this to your potential employer acknowledge, reassure, and redirect.Heres how it worksACKNOWLEDGE Describe the situation very briefly and factually, and acknowledge that it is a valid concern. Keep your emotions out of it. Dont be detailed, defensive, or apologetic. Just stick to the facts.ExampleBetween 1999 and 2003, I was _____. I can understand that the situation might concern you, Mr. Smith. REASSURE Explain what steps you took to resolve the problem that caused the gap. The employers main concern is that you will turn out to be a badeanstalt hire, so reassure them that there is no risk of similar problems in the future.ExampleDuring that time, I am proud to say that I ____. In retrospect, it was an extraordinary experience that taught me many positive lessons. And now, with that chapter closed, Im ready to take on my next challenge.REDIRECT Finish your explanation with a question about the job, or a statement about your more recent accomplishments to steer the conversation back to your positive qualifications for the job at hand.ExampleMy ____ experience seems like excellent preparation for the challenges of this position. What are the most important goals youd like the person who fills this role to accomplish in the first three to six months?This method is useful whether your issue is a voluntary or involuntary employment gap, a past medical crisis, a criminal record, or anything in between. Basically, any sort of potentially negative news can be addressed in this manner. And remember, youre not alone. No matter what caused that gap in your resume, lots of other people have been in the sam e situation and gone back to gainful employment. You will, too.