As an expert blogger with expertise in writing letters, I know that crafting a reference letter for gap in employment can be a daunting task. However, it’s important to provide a potential employer with an explanation for any gaps in your employment history. In this article, I will provide tips for writing a strong reference letter for a gap in employment, as well as seven examples that you can use as a guide. Additionally, I will answer some frequently asked questions to help you navigate this process with ease.
Tips for Writing a Reference Letter for Gap in Employment
When writing a reference letter for a gap in employment, keep the following tips in mind:
1. Be Honest
While it may be tempting to gloss over a gap in employment, it’s important to be honest about the reason for the break. This will help to build trust with potential employers and show that you are open and transparent.
2. Explain the Reason for the Gap
Clearly state the reason for the gap in employment, whether it be due to a personal or medical issue, family responsibilities, or a career change. This will help the employer understand your situation and demonstrate that you are capable of overcoming challenges.
3. Highlight any Relevant Experience
If you engaged in any volunteer work, freelance projects, or took relevant classes or courses during your gap in employment, be sure to mention it in your letter. This will show that you remained active and engaged in your field during that time period.
4. Provide Contact Information
Include your contact information in the letter, so that the employer can follow up with any additional questions or concerns.
Seven Examples of Reference Letters for Gap in Employment
Personal Reasons
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to provide a reference for [Name], who worked for my company for [Number] of years. During [his/her] time with us, [he/she] demonstrated [specific skills/qualities]. [He/She] left the company due to personal reasons, but [he/she] remained committed to [his/her] professional development by attending [relevant conferences/classes]. I have no doubt that [he/she] will bring this same level of dedication to your company.
Thank you for considering [Name] for this position.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Career Change
Dear [First Name],
I am writing this reference letter for [Name], who worked as a [Previous Job Title] for [Number] of years. [He/She] recently took a break from [his/her] career to pursue [a new career path/education], and I couldn’t be more proud of [him/her]. During [his/her] time with us, [he/she] demonstrated [specific skills/qualities] and made valuable contributions to our team. I have no doubt that [he/she] will bring this same level of dedication and passion to your company.
Thank you for considering [Name] for this position.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Family Responsibilities
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing this reference letter for [Name], who worked for my company as a [Previous Job Title] for [Number] of years. During [his/her] time with us, [he/she] demonstrated [specific skills/qualities] and was a valuable member of our team. [He/She] took a break from [his/her] career to attend to [family responsibilities/childcare], but [he/she] remained active in [his/her] field by attending [relevant conferences/classes]. I am confident that [he/she] will make a positive contribution to your company.
Thank you for considering [Name] for this position.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Medical Reasons
Dear [First Name],
I am writing to provide a reference for [Name], who worked for me as a [Previous Job Title] for [Number] of years. Unfortunately, [he/she] had to take a break from [his/her] career due to medical reasons. Despite this setback, [he/she] remained committed to [his/her] professional development by attending [relevant conferences/classes]. [He/She] is a hardworking, dedicated professional who always went above and beyond to ensure that our projects were completed on time and on budget.
Thank you for considering [Name] for this position.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Freelancing
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing this reference letter for [Name], who worked for my company as a [Previous Job Title] for [Number] of years. [He/She] took a break from [his/her] career to pursue freelance work, but remained active in [his/her] field by attending [relevant conferences/classes]. [He/She] is a talented, hardworking professional who always delivered high-quality work on time and on budget. I have no doubt that [he/she] will bring this same level of dedication and expertise to your company.
Thank you for considering [Name] for this position.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Traveling
Dear [First Name],
I am writing this reference letter for [Name], who worked for me as a [Previous Job Title] for [Number] of years. [He/She] took a break from [his/her] career to travel and gain new perspectives, but remained committed to [his/her] professional development by attending [relevant conferences/classes]. [He/She] is a creative, adaptable professional who always brought fresh ideas to our projects. I have no doubt that [he/she] will make a positive contribution to your company.
Thank you for considering [Name] for this position.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Entrepreneurship
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing this reference letter for [Name], who worked for my company as a [Previous Job Title] for [Number] of years. [He/She] took a break from [his/her] career to start [his/her] own business, but remained active in [his/her] field by attending [relevant conferences/classes]. [He/She] is a driven, entrepreneurial professional who always looked for ways to innovate and improve our processes. I have no doubt that [he/she] will bring this same level of energy and creativity to your company.
Thank you for considering [Name] for this position.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Include in a Reference Letter for Gap in Employment?
When writing a reference letter for gap in employment, be sure to include the reason for the gap, any relevant experience gained during that time, and your contact information. It’s also important to be honest and transparent about the situation.
How Do I Address a Gap in Employment in a Cover Letter?
You can address a gap in employment in your cover letter by briefly explaining the reason for the break and how you used that time to develop new skills or gain valuable experience. Focus on the positives and how you are now ready to re-enter the workforce with renewed energy and enthusiasm.
Will a Gap in Employment Affect My Chances of Getting Hired?
While a gap in employment may raise questions for potential employers, it does not necessarily mean that you will not be hired. Be upfront about the reason for the gap and highlight any relevant experience or skills gained during that time. Focus on the positives and how you are now ready to contribute to a new team.
How Long of a Gap in Employment is Considered a Red Flag?
There is no set amount of time that is considered a red flag, as it depends on the industry, role, and individual circumstances. However, it is important to be honest and transparent about the reason for the gap and highlight any relevant experience gained during that time.
Should I Mention the Reason for My Gap in Employment in a Job Interview?
It is up to you whether or not you want to mention the reason for your gap in employment in a job interview. However, it is important to be honest and transparent about the situation, as potential employers may find out through reference checks or background screenings.
How Can I Use a Gap in Employment to My Advantage?
A gap in employment can be an opportunity to develop new skills, gain valuable experience, or pursue personal passions. Use this time to your advantage by taking on freelance projects, volunteering, or attending relevant conferences or classes. Highlight these experiences in your cover letter or reference letter to show potential employers that you remained active and engaged during that time.
Conclusion
Writing a reference letter for gap in employment can be a challenge, but it’s important to provide a potential employer with an explanation for any breaks in your employment history. By being honest, explaining the reason for the gap, and highlighting any relevant experience gained during that time, you can demonstrate to potential employers that you are a dedicated, hardworking professional who is ready to contribute to a new team. Use the tips and examples in this article to guide you through this process with confidence.