How to Talk About Your Career Gap in a Job Interview

For mothers returning to the workforce, discussing a career gap can feel like a sensitive topic. Whether your break was due to raising children, navigating a divorce, or managing personal challenges, it’s important to approach this topic with confidence and preparation. The good news? Career gaps are increasingly recognized as a normal part of life, especially by quality employers.

Here’s how to address the subject if it comes up in an interview. The positive is that it gives you a chance to share who you are as a person and turn it into an opportunity to showcase your strengths.

My own tricky employment history

When I returned to the workforce, my employment history felt complex. Having worked in a family business with my ex-partner, asking for a letter of recommendation wasn’t exactly an option. At the same time, raising a family and managing household responsibilities didn’t feel “legitimate” enough to highlight on a CV.

To bridge the gap (and because I had the ability to do so), I chose to go back to school and update my skills. Completing a recognized program provided credibility and helped me feel more confident when speaking about my qualifications. During this time, I also did freelance writing, which allowed me to keep my skills fresh and relevant.

Your journey may look different but know that you’re not alone in facing these challenges. There’s always a way to frame your experiences in a way that aligns with your professional goals.

The Soft Skills You Bring to the Table

One of the biggest lessons I learned during my return to work is that raising a family equips you with an invaluable skill set. Planning, organizing, managing a household, and anticipating needs are all abilities that directly translate to the workplace. While they may not fit neatly into the “Experience” section of a resume, they’re incredibly valid and worth owning.

In interviews, don’t underestimate these skills. While you might not write “managed a household” on your CV, you can confidently speak to your problem-solving abilities, time management expertise, and adaptability. These qualities are not only transferable but also in high demand. You will be an asset anywhere you land with abilities like this. But first, you’ve got to get the job.

So, back to that career gap issue we were discussing, here’s how I’d approach it.

Know the story you want to tell

Before heading into an interview, spend some time preparing how you’ll talk about your career gap. Think about:

• The reason for your break: Whether it was to care for your children, pursue education, or manage personal matters, have a concise and honest explanation ready.

• What you did during that time: Highlight activities that demonstrate growth, such as volunteering, freelancing, taking online courses, or managing household responsibilities. I would stick to things that would be relevant to your role.

The goal is to show that you weren’t idle during your time away but instead used it to develop skills, gain perspective, or prepare for your return to work.

Stay positive

When discussing your career gap, emphasize the positive aspects and the benefits it brought to your life. Perhaps you gained new skills, expanded your network, or re-evaluated your career priorities. Share how the break has motivated you to re-enter the workforce with renewed energy and focus.

Avoid apologizing or sounding defensive. Instead, speak with confidence, showing that you value the experiences you had during your career break.

Show how it is relevant to the job

Tailor your explanation to the role you’re applying for. For example, if you took online courses during your time off, mention how they’ve prepared you for the demands of the industry.

Show the interviewer that your career gap wasn’t just a pause but a period of personal growth that makes you even more qualified for the role.

Be Truthful and Show Enthusiasm

Honesty is always the best policy. Addressing your career gap truthfully demonstrates integrity and shows that you’re prepared to own your story. Focus on transferable skills and any professional development you pursued during your break.

At the end of the day, your career gap may not be especially relevant to the industry or company you are applying to. However, it gives you a chance to share who you are.

Above all, convey enthusiasm for the role and the company. Your energy, excitement, and commitment to achieving your career goals will leave a lasting impression. Remember, a career gap is just one part of your story. It’s how you present yourself that truly matters.

Final Thoughts

A career gap, especially for mothers returning to work, is nothing to be ashamed of. Life happens, and employers increasingly recognize that diverse life experiences can bring immense value to the workplace. By preparing your story, focusing on the positives, and relating your experiences to the job, you can turn your career gap into a strength.