Explaining a gap in your employment history can be a daunting task, especially when applying for a job. However, an employment gap explanation letter can help you address this issue and demonstrate your professionalism. In this article, we provide tips and examples of employment gap explanation letters that you can use as a guide.
If you’ve been out of work for a while, it’s understandable to feel concerned about how a potential employer might view this gap in your employment history. However, writing an employment gap explanation letter can be a helpful way to explain the situation in a professional manner. Below, you’ll find some tips and examples to help you get started.
An employment gap explanation letter should be brief and to the point. Begin by acknowledging the gap in your employment history and provide a brief explanation of why it occurred. Explain how you used your time during the gap to continue developing your skills and experience. Finally, express your enthusiasm for returning to the workforce.
It’s important to remember that an employment gap is not necessarily a negative thing. Life happens, and sometimes we need to take time off for personal reasons or to pursue other opportunities. However, addressing the gap in a professional manner can help alleviate any concerns a potential employer may have.
Below, you’ll find some examples of employment gap explanation letters that you can use as a guide. Feel free to edit them as needed to fit your specific situation.
Example 1: Health Issues
Greeting:
Dear Hiring Manager,
Letter Body:
Thank you for considering my application for the position of [position]. I wanted to briefly address the gap in my employment history from [date] to [date]. During this time, I was dealing with some health issues that required my full attention. However, I used this time to focus on my health and to continue developing my skills by [activity 1] and [activity 2].
I am now fully recovered and eager to return to the workforce. I am confident that my skills and experience make me a strong candidate for this position, and I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to your team.
Complimentary Close:
Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, [Your Name]
Example 2: Family Caregiving
Greeting:
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Letter Body:
I am writing to address the gap in my employment history from [date] to [date]. During this time, I was caring for a family member who was dealing with a serious illness. Although this was a difficult time for me, I was able to develop my [skill 1] and [skill 2] through [activity 1] and [activity 2].
I am now ready and eager to return to work in [industry]. I am confident that my skills and experience make me a strong candidate for this position, and I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to your company.
Complimentary Close:
Thank you for your time and consideration. Best regards, [Your Name]
Example 3: Pursuing Higher Education
Greeting:
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Letter Body:
I am writing to explain the gap in my employment history from [date] to [date]. During this time, I was pursuing a [degree/certification] in [field of study]. I wanted to continue developing my skills and knowledge in [industry/field] so that I could become a more valuable asset to any company I worked for in the future.
Now that I have completed my degree/certification, I am excited to return to the workforce and put my skills and knowledge to use. I am confident that I would be an asset to your team and look forward to the opportunity to contribute to your company.
Complimentary Close:
Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, [Your Name]
Example 4: Personal Reasons
Greeting:
Dear Hiring Manager,
Letter Body:
I am writing to explain the gap in my employment history from [date] to [date]. During this time, I needed to take a break from work for personal reasons. However, I used this time to [activity 1] and [activity 2] in order to continue developing my skills and stay up-to-date in my field.
I am now excited to return to work and contribute to your team. I believe that my skills and experience would make me an asset to your company and I look forward to the opportunity to prove myself.
Complimentary Close:
Thank you for your time and consideration. Best regards, [Your Name]
Example 5: Relocation
Greeting:
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Letter Body:
I am writing to address the gap in my employment history from [date] to [date]. During this time, I had to relocate for personal reasons. However, I used this time to [activity 1] and [activity 2] in order to continue developing my skills and stay up-to-date in my field.
I am now back in [city/state] and eager to return to work. I am confident that my skills and experience make me a strong candidate for this position, and I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to your team.
Complimentary Close:
Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, [Your Name]
Example 6: Career Break
Greeting:
Dear Hiring Manager,
Letter Body:
I am writing to explain the gap in my employment history from [date] to [date]. During this time, I took a break from my career in order to [reason for break]. However, I used this time to [activity 1] and [activity 2], which allowed me to develop new skills that I believe will be valuable in my future career.
I am now excited to return to work and contribute to your team. I believe that my skills and experience would make me an asset to your company, and I look forward to the opportunity to prove myself.
Complimentary Close:
Thank you for your time and consideration. Best regards, [Your Name]
Tips for Writing an Employment Gap Explanation Letter
If you need to write an employment gap explanation letter, keep these tips in mind:
- Be honest about why you were out of work.
- Focus on what you did during the gap to stay productive and develop your skills.
- Express your enthusiasm for returning to work and contributing to the company.
- Use a professional tone and keep the letter brief.
- Don’t make excuses or apologize excessively.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in an employment gap explanation letter?
In an employment gap explanation letter, you should acknowledge the gap in your employment history and provide a brief explanation of why it occurred. Explain how you used your time during the gap to continue developing your skills and experience. Finally, express your enthusiasm for returning to the workforce.
How long should an employment gap explanation letter be?
Your employment gap explanation letter should be brief and to the point. Aim for no more than 40-50 sentences.
Should I mention the reason for my employment gap in my resume or cover letter?
You don’t need to mention the reason for your employment gap in your resume or cover letter. However, if the gap is particularly long or you think it might be a concern for the employer, it’s a good idea to address it in your cover letter.
How do I address an employment gap during a job interview?
When discussing your employment history during a job interview, be honest about the gap and focus on what you did during the gap to develop your skills and stay productive. It’s also a good idea to express your enthusiasm for returning to work and contributing to the company.
Will an employment gap hurt my chances of getting hired?
An employment gap is not necessarily a negative thing, especially if you used the time to develop your skills or pursue other opportunities. However, if the gap is particularly long, it’s a good idea to address it in your cover letter and be prepared to discuss it during a job interview.
Can I use a template for my employment gap explanation letter?
Yes, you can use a template for your employment gap explanation letter. However, make sure to edit it to fit your specific situation and to express your own voice and personality.
Conclusion
An employment gap explanation letter can help you address any concerns a potential employer may have about a gap in your employment history. Use the tips and examples provided in this article to write a professional and effective letter that showcases your skills and experience.