How to explain breaks in your career

Taking a break from your career can happen for various reasons, such as health issues, family responsibilities, personal reasons, or simply taking time off to explore new things. Whatever the reason, it's natural to feel worried about explaining this gap in your career history to a potential employer. However, with the right approach, you can turn this break into a positive thing. Here are some tips to help you explain breaks in your career.

Be honest and transparent
The first step is to be honest and transparent about your career break. Explain the reasons behind it and don't try to hide anything. Honesty is always the best policy, and most employers appreciate candidates who are upfront and honest about their career history.

Emphasise the positive
Instead of focusing on the break itself, emphasise the positive things you did during your time off. If you traveled, took classes, or did volunteer work, talk about these experiences and how they helped you grow and learn new skills. This will show that you were productive during your break and that you have a proactive attitude towards personal growth.

Show how you stayed current
Even if you weren't working during your break, you might have stayed current with your industry or profession. Mention any courses or workshops you attended, any books or publications you read, or any relevant online communities you participated in. This will demonstrate that you're committed to your career and that you're always looking for ways to improve your skills and knowledge.

Explain how you're ready to return
Finally, explain how you're ready to return to work and how your break has helped you prepare for your next job. Talk about the skills and experiences you gained during your break and how they can be applied to the position you're applying for. This will show that you're motivated and ready to get back to work.

In conclusion, explaining a career break doesn't have to be daunting. With the right approach, you can turn it into a positive thing that highlights your strengths and readiness to return to work. Remember, honesty and transparency are key, and emphasising the positive experiences and skills gained during your break will demonstrate your proactive attitude towards personal growth.