How to Explain Employment Gaps on Your Resume
Gaps are common. Here's how to address them honestly and confidently on your resume, in your cover letter, and in interviews.
We Build Resume Editorial Team Updated September 25, 2026 5 min read
Be honest and brief
Caregiving, health, education, relocation, and layoffs are all understood by employers. One clear sentence is enough.
Show what you did
Courses, certifications, volunteer work, and freelance projects can fill the timeline and demonstrate momentum.
Use years instead of months
For short gaps between longer roles, listing years only is a common, acceptable practice.
Ready to put this into practice?
Address it in a cover letter