If you need to write a reference letter for someone who has a gap in their employment history, it can be challenging to know where to start. That’s where the Gap Reference Letter Template comes in. This template provides a structure for writing a letter that highlights the strengths of the person you are recommending, while also addressing any concerns about their work history. To help you get started, we’ve put together some tips, examples, and FAQs below.
Tips for Writing a Gap Reference Letter Template
When using the Gap Reference Letter Template, keep these tips in mind:
1. Use a clear and concise opening – Start your letter by introducing yourself and your relationship with the person you are recommending. Be sure to mention the position and company they are applying to.
2. Explain the gap in their employment – Address the gap in their employment history and explain why it occurred. If the gap was due to personal reasons, you can simply state that. If it was due to a layoff or other circumstance beyond their control, you can explain that as well.
3. Highlight their skills and accomplishments – Focus on the person’s skills, accomplishments, and character traits. You can draw on examples from their previous work experience, volunteer work, or other activities.
4. Provide specific examples – Use specific examples to demonstrate the person’s strengths. This can help to paint a more vivid picture of their abilities and make your letter more compelling.
5. Encourage follow-up – End your letter by encouraging the employer to follow up with you if they have any further questions.
If you’re not sure where to start, you can find examples of the Gap Reference Letter Template online and edit them as needed.
Examples of Gap Reference Letter Template
Returning to the workforce after a career break
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend Jane Doe for the position of Marketing Manager at your company. Jane worked for me as a Senior Marketing Analyst at XYZ Corporation for four years before taking a career break to raise her children. During her time with us, Jane was an outstanding performer who consistently exceeded her targets and demonstrated exceptional leadership skills.
Despite taking time off to focus on her family, Jane has remained engaged in the marketing industry through her freelance work and participation in industry events. Her commitment to staying up-to-date with the latest trends and technology is admirable and makes her an ideal candidate for this position.
Sincerely,
John Smith
Transitioning to a new field
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend John Doe for the position of Data Analyst at your company. Although John’s previous experience was in the finance industry, I believe that his analytical skills and ability to learn quickly make him an excellent candidate for this role.
While working as a financial analyst at ABC Corporation, John demonstrated a keen eye for detail and an ability to analyze large amounts of data quickly and accurately. He also took the initiative to learn new software and tools that were not commonly used in his field, which allowed him to work more efficiently and effectively.
Although John has not worked as a data analyst before, I am confident that he will bring the same level of dedication and expertise to this role as he has in his previous positions.
Best,
Jane Smith
Returning to work after illness
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend Sarah Johnson for the position of Executive Assistant at your company. Sarah worked for me as a Personal Assistant at LMN Corporation for three years before taking time off due to an illness.
During her time with us, Sarah was an integral part of our team and played an important role in managing my schedule and coordinating with clients and vendors. She was always reliable, efficient, and professional.
While Sarah has been out of the workforce for a period of time, she has been using this time to focus on her health and wellbeing. She has also been taking online courses to stay up-to-date with the latest office software and tools.
Thank you for considering Sarah for this position. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
Mark Davis
Returning to work after travel
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend Alex Nguyen for the position of Sales Manager at your company. Alex worked for me as a Sales Representative at PQR Corporation for three years before taking a year off to travel.
During his time with us, Alex was a top-performing sales representative who consistently exceeded his targets and demonstrated excellent customer service skills. He was also highly respected by his colleagues and clients.
Since returning from his travels, Alex has been working as a freelance sales consultant and has continued to hone his skills in the field. He is now eager to return to a full-time role in sales and I believe that he would make a valuable addition to your team.
Best regards,
Anna Lee
Returning to work after taking care of a family member
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend Michael Brown for the position of Project Manager at your company. Michael worked for me as a Project Coordinator at UVW Corporation for five years before taking time off to care for a family member.
During his time with us, Michael was a dedicated and diligent employee who always went above and beyond to ensure that projects were completed on time and within budget. He was also an excellent communicator who was able to manage stakeholders and team members with ease.
Although Michael has been out of the workforce for a period of time, he has been using this time to develop his skills in project management and technology. He has also been volunteering as a project manager for a local non-profit organization.
Thank you for considering Michael for this position. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
Emma Thompson
Returning to work after starting a business
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend David Lee for the position of Business Development Manager at your company. David worked for me as a Sales Representative at KLM Corporation for four years before leaving to start his own business.
During his time with us, David was a top-performing sales representative who consistently exceeded his targets and demonstrated excellent customer service skills. He was also highly respected by his colleagues and clients.
David’s entrepreneurial spirit and leadership qualities were evident during his time with us, and I am confident that he would bring the same level of dedication and expertise to your organization. He has since sold his business and is now eager to return to a full-time role in business development.
Best regards,
John Brown
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should I include in a gap reference letter?
A: A gap reference letter should include an introduction that explains your relationship with the person you are recommending, an explanation of the gap in their employment history, and a focus on their skills and accomplishments. It should also encourage follow-up from the employer.
Q: How do I explain a gap in someone’s employment history?
A: When explaining a gap in someone’s employment history, it’s important to be honest and direct. If the gap was due to personal reasons, it’s okay to state that. If it was due to a layoff or other circumstance beyond their control, you can explain that as well. Make sure to emphasize any positive steps they have taken during this time, such as taking courses or volunteering.
Q: How long should a gap reference letter be?
A: A gap reference letter should be no more than one page in length. It should be concise and focused on the person’s strengths and qualifications for the position.
Q: How can I make my gap reference letter stand out?
A: To make your gap reference letter stand out, focus on using specific examples to demonstrate the person’s strengths. Use an upbeat and positive tone, and be sure to encourage follow-up from the employer.
Q: Can I use a gap reference letter for any job application?
A: A gap reference letter is particularly useful when the person you are recommending has a gap in their employment history. However, it can be adapted for use in any job application where you need to provide a reference.
Q: Should I mention the gap in someone’s employment history in a job interview?
A: If the gap in someone’s employment history is relevant to the position they are applying for, it’s likely that the interviewer will ask about it. It’s important to be honest about the gap and what the person did during that time, such as taking courses or volunteering. Focus on how the person’s skills and experience make them a good fit for the position.
Q: What if I don’t feel comfortable writing a gap reference letter?
A: If you don’t feel comfortable writing a gap reference letter, it’s okay to decline. Be honest with the person and explain why you don’t feel qualified to provide a reference. It’s better to decline than to provide a reference that you are not confident in.
Conclusion
Writing a gap reference letter can be challenging, but with the right approach, it can be a valuable tool for helping the person you are recommending to land their dream job. Use the Gap Reference Letter Template and the tips and examples above to create a compelling letter that highlights the person’s strengths and qualifications, while also addressing any concerns about their work history.