cover letter for employment gap

Cover Letter With Employment Gap | Sample and Template

Addressing an employment gap in a cover letter is a delicate art. Our page equips you with the finesse required to turn a career hiatus into a compelling story of personal and professional development.

Here, you’ll find insightful strategies, a robust sample, and a customizable template that together will help you navigate the discussion of employment gaps with confidence.

Use these resources to highlight your resilience and the valuable skills acquired during your time away from the workforce.

This guidance is crafted to ensure you present your career break not as a detour, but as a deliberate journey towards enhancing your professional stature.

Begin your next chapter with a cover letter that bridges the past with your bright future.

Sample Cover Letter With Employment Gap

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my keen interest in the Administrative Assistant position at Pathway Enterprises as listed on your website. Your commitment to community engagement and fostering a collaborative workplace aligns perfectly with my professional values and skills.

You may notice from my resume that there is a gap in my employment history from June 2021 to March 2024. I’d like to take a moment to share the context behind this. I made the decision to take this time off to fully dedicate myself to caring for an ailing family member. Though this period was focused on personal obligations, it also afforded me the opportunity to undertake personal development, improving my organizational and administrative capabilities.

During this interval, I completed an online course in advanced Microsoft Office Suite skills, which sharpened my proficiency in essential tools such as Excel, PowerPoint, and Word. Moreover, to maintain a connection to my professional roots, I volunteered as a part-time remote administrator for a local charity, Love for Literacy. In this capacity, I helped organize their online fundraising events, manage donor databases, and coordinate communication between different departments, effectively keeping my administrative skills sharp and current.

Now that I am re-entering the workforce, I am excited to bring a refreshed enthusiasm and a set of strengthened skills to the role at Pathway Enterprises. Prior to my hiatus, I accumulated over four years of experience as an Administrative Assistant where I excelled in roles that required exceptional attention to detail, strong organization skills, comprehensive management of executive schedules, and the handling of confidential information.

I am very hopeful about the opportunity to bring my blend of experience, coupled with fresh insights, to support the growth and efficiency of Pathway Enterprises. My dedication to excellent administrative support and continuous improvement make me the ideal candidate to contribute to the success of your team.

Please contact me at your convenience so we can discuss how I can be a part of Pathway Enterprises in greater detail. You can reach me at (000) 987-6543 or via email at [email protected] . Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your esteemed company and am ready to make a positive impact from day one.

Warmest regards,

Claire Thompson 789 Westward Lane Admin City, IN 46000 [email protected] (000) 987-6543

Cover Letter With Employment Gap (Template)

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I believe that my skills and experience make me a strong candidate for this role.

As you review my resume, you may notice a gap in my employment history. I want to provide context and address this directly. During that period, I made a deliberate decision to take time away from the professional world to focus on personal matters. This break allowed me to dedicate my attention to [reasons for the gap, such as family responsibilities, health, or personal development].

Although I was not working in a traditional role during this period, I remained actively engaged and committed to continuous self-improvement. I took advantage of the time to sharpen my [relevant skills] through online courses, workshops, and independent projects. Additionally, I volunteered my time with [reputable organizations], where I could contribute my skills while making a positive impact in the community.

While the gap in my employment history may raise questions, I want to emphasize that I have valuable skills and qualifications to offer. I am highly motivated, adaptable, and eager to contribute my expertise to [Company Name] and its mission.

I appreciate your time and consideration of my application. I am confident that my passion for [industry or field] and my dedication to personal growth make me an excellent fit for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills align with your needs in more detail during an interview.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Tips for Writing a Cover Letter With Employment Gap

If you’re crafting a cover letter and there happens to be a gap in your employment history, it’s essential to address this in a manner that puts a positive spin on your time away from the workforce.

Here are some practical tips to help you write an effective cover letter that explains the employment gap while emphasizing your strengths and suitability for the job.

1. Address the Employment Gap Upfront

Confront the issue head-on by providing a brief but honest explanation for your employment gap. Whether it was due to personal commitments, health issues, or a sabbatical for professional development, be upfront but concise about it.

2. Focus the Positive

Focus on the constructive aspects of your time out of work. If you acquired new skills, engaged in volunteer work, or pursued relevant certifications or studies, make sure you detail these and relate how they can benefit the prospective employer.

3. Highlight Your Transferable Skills

Draw attention to the transferable skills you’ve developed, which could include project management while volunteering, communication skills from coordinating community events, or problem-solving skills through diverse life experiences. Show how they apply to the position.

4. Emphasize Your Professional Development

If you used your time off to enhance your qualifications or stay current in your field, mention any relevant courses or certifications. This demonstrates your commitment to self-improvement and professional growth.

5. Showcase Relevant Achievements

Your employment gap doesn’t erase your prior work experience. Highlight your most relevant achievements from previous positions that show you have the skills and experience needed for the job.

6. Customize Your Cover Letter

Tailor each cover letter to the job and company you’re applying for. Research the organization and align your qualifications with their mission, culture, and the specifics of the job opening.

7. Maintain a Positive Tone

Keep the tone of your cover letter optimistic and enthusiastic. Rather than focusing on the gap, emphasize your readiness and zeal to return to the workforce.

8. Be Brief But Honest

Don’t dwell on the employment gap; provide enough information to address any concerns but keep the focus on your capabilities and the value you can bring to the company.

9. Avoid Negative Language

Refrain from using negative terms when discussing your employment gap. Words like “unemployed” can be replaced with “available for new opportunities” or “took a sabbatical.”

10. Request an Interview

Conclude your cover letter with a call to action, inviting the hiring manager to discuss your application in further detail through an interview.

Remember, transparency and the ability to turn potential weaknesses into showcases of strength and character can set you apart. Crafting your cover letter with these tips can help you effectively bridge the gap in your employment when applying for new job opportunities.

Recommended:

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Written Samples

15 sample cover letters for gap in employment.

Are you feeling anxious about a gap in your employment history?

Many job seekers face this challenge, whether due to personal circumstances, career changes, or unexpected layoffs.

The good news is that a well-crafted cover letter can help you address these gaps and showcase your strengths to potential employers.

Sample Cover Letters for Gap in Employment

In this article, we will provide 15 sample cover letters tailored for various employment gap scenarios, empowering you to confidently pursue your next career opportunity.

Cover Letter One: Returning to the Workforce After Raising Children

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am excited to apply for the Marketing Coordinator position at XYZ Company. With over five years of experience in digital marketing before taking a career break to raise my children, I am eager to return to the workforce and contribute my skills to your dynamic team.

During my time away from the corporate world, I remained active in the marketing community by volunteering for local non-profit organizations. I managed their social media accounts, created engaging content, and organized successful fundraising events. These experiences not only kept my marketing skills sharp but also enhanced my ability to multitask, prioritize, and collaborate effectively.

In my previous role as a Marketing Specialist at ABC Inc., I implemented successful email campaigns that increased customer engagement by 30% and generated a 20% increase in sales revenue. I am confident that I can bring the same level of dedication and results-driven approach to XYZ Company.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how my skills and experiences align with your company’s goals and contribute to its success.

[Your Name]

Cover Letter Two: Addressing a Gap Due to Personal Illness

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Software Developer position at XYZ Company. With a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and three years of experience in full-stack development, I am confident in my ability to make a meaningful contribution to your team.

You may notice a gap in my employment history from 2020 to 2021. During this time, I faced a personal health challenge that required my full attention. Thankfully, I have made a complete recovery and am now ready to fully dedicate myself to my career once again.

Throughout my professional journey, I have consistently demonstrated my ability to develop robust and scalable applications using modern technologies such as Java, Python, and ReactJS. In my previous role at ABC Tech, I successfully led the development of a web application that streamlined internal processes, resulting in a 25% increase in productivity.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my technical expertise and problem-solving skills to XYZ Company. I am particularly drawn to your company’s innovative projects and commitment to using technology for social good.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the chance to further discuss how I can contribute to your team’s success.

Best regards,

Cover Letter Three: Explaining a Gap Due to Caring for a Family Member

I am writing to apply for the Customer Service Representative position at XYZ Company. With over seven years of experience in customer-facing roles, I am passionate about delivering exceptional service and building long-lasting customer relationships.

From 2019 to 2020, I took a career break to care for my elderly parent who was battling a serious illness. During this challenging time, I developed a deeper sense of empathy, patience, and adaptability – qualities that I believe are essential in providing outstanding customer service.

In my previous role as a Customer Service Specialist at ABC Corporation, I consistently exceeded performance targets, maintaining a 98% customer satisfaction rating. I am skilled in handling complex customer inquiries, de-escalating tense situations, and finding creative solutions to meet customer needs.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my customer service expertise to XYZ Company and contribute to your team’s success. Your company’s reputation for exceptional customer care aligns perfectly with my values and career goals.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the chance to further discuss how my experiences and skills can benefit your organization.

Cover Letter Four: Addressing a Gap Due to Pursuing Higher Education

I am thrilled to apply for the Financial Analyst position at XYZ Company. With a recently completed Master’s degree in Finance and three years of prior experience in financial analysis, I am confident in my ability to make a significant contribution to your team.

You may notice a two-year gap in my employment history from 2020 to 2022. During this time, I made the decision to pursue a Master’s degree in Finance to further enhance my knowledge and skills in the field. This educational experience not only provided me with advanced technical skills but also honed my critical thinking, data analysis, and problem-solving abilities.

In my previous role as a Financial Analyst at ABC Corporation, I conducted in-depth financial modeling and analysis, resulting in cost savings of over $500,000 for the company. I am skilled in using financial software such as Bloomberg Terminal and have a keen eye for identifying trends and opportunities.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my enhanced financial expertise and passion for data-driven decision-making to XYZ Company. Your company’s reputation for financial excellence and commitment to innovation aligns perfectly with my career aspirations.

Cover Letter Five: Explaining a Gap Due to Relocation

I am excited to apply for the Sales Manager position at XYZ Company. With over eight years of experience in sales and a proven track record of exceeding targets, I am confident in my ability to drive growth and contribute to your team’s success.

You may notice a six-month gap in my employment history from mid-2021 to early 2022. During this time, my spouse received a job opportunity that required us to relocate to a new city. While this transition took some time, I am now fully settled and eager to resume my career in sales.

In my previous role as a Sales Representative at ABC Corporation, I consistently ranked as a top performer, surpassing sales targets by an average of 25% each quarter. I am skilled in building strong customer relationships, identifying new business opportunities, and implementing effective sales strategies.

I am particularly drawn to XYZ Company’s innovative products and customer-centric approach. I am excited about the opportunity to bring my sales expertise and leadership skills to your team and contribute to your company’s continued success.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the chance to further discuss how I can help drive sales growth and exceed customer expectations at XYZ Company.

Cover Letter Six: Addressing a Gap Due to Entrepreneurial Venture

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Operations Manager position at XYZ Company. With over ten years of experience in operations management and a successful entrepreneurial venture under my belt, I am confident in my ability to drive efficiency and optimize processes for your organization.

From 2018 to 2021, I took a break from traditional employment to start my own e-commerce business. As the founder and CEO, I oversaw all aspects of the company, from product development to supply chain management and customer service. During this time, I honed my leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, successfully growing the business to a six-figure revenue within two years.

While I am proud of my entrepreneurial accomplishments, I have decided to return to a corporate role where I can contribute my operational expertise and leadership skills to a larger organization. In my previous role as an Operations Manager at ABC Corporation, I implemented process improvements that increased productivity by 20% and reduced operational costs by 15%.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my diverse skill set and entrepreneurial mindset to XYZ Company. Your company’s commitment to operational excellence and innovation aligns perfectly with my values and career goals.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the chance to further discuss how I can contribute to your team’s success and drive operational efficiencies at XYZ Company.

Cover Letter Seven: Explaining a Gap Due to Volunteer Work

I am excited to apply for the Program Coordinator position at XYZ Non-Profit Organization. With over five years of experience in program management and a deep passion for community service, I am confident in my ability to make a meaningful contribution to your team and support your organization’s mission.

You may notice a one-year gap in my employment history from 2021 to 2022. During this time, I decided to take a sabbatical and dedicate myself to full-time volunteer work. I spent six months in a developing country, working with a local NGO to implement education and healthcare initiatives in underserved communities. This experience not only reinforced my commitment to social impact but also enhanced my cross-cultural communication, adaptability, and project management skills.

In my previous role as a Program Manager at ABC Non-Profit, I successfully designed and implemented a mentorship program that matched underprivileged youth with industry professionals, resulting in a 90% high school graduation rate among participants. I am skilled in program development, stakeholder engagement, and impact measurement.

I am particularly drawn to XYZ Non-Profit’s mission of empowering marginalized communities through education and advocacy. I am excited about the opportunity to bring my program management expertise and passion for social change to your organization.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the chance to further discuss how I can contribute to your team’s success and make a positive impact in the communities you serve.

Cover Letter Eight: Addressing a Gap Due to Military Service

I am writing to apply for the Logistics Coordinator position at XYZ Company. As a recent veteran with over six years of experience in military logistics and supply chain management, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your team’s success and drive operational efficiency.

From 2016 to 2022, I served in the United States Army as a Logistics Specialist. During my service, I oversaw the management and distribution of supplies, equipment, and personnel across multiple locations. I developed strong skills in inventory management, transportation coordination, and problem-solving under high-pressure situations.

While transitioning back to civilian life, I completed a Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management to complement my military experience with formal education. I am now eager to apply my logistics expertise and leadership skills to a corporate setting.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my unique blend of military discipline, adaptability, and logistics knowledge to XYZ Company. Your company’s reputation for operational excellence and commitment to employee development aligns perfectly with my career aspirations.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the chance to further discuss how I can contribute to your team’s success and drive logistics efficiency at XYZ Company.

Cover Letter Nine: Explaining a Gap Due to Career Change

I am excited to apply for the Graphic Designer position at XYZ Company. While my background may seem unconventional, I am confident that my diverse experiences, creative skills, and passion for design make me a strong candidate for this role.

You may notice a two-year gap in my employment history from 2020 to 2022. During this time, I made the bold decision to pursue a career change from accounting to graphic design. I enrolled in a rigorous design program, where I honed my skills in Adobe Creative Suite, typography, and visual communication. I also completed several freelance projects, creating logos, brochures, and websites for small businesses.

Before my career transition, I worked as an Accountant at ABC Corporation for five years. While my role focused on financial analysis, I consistently found ways to incorporate my creative skills, designing visually appealing presentations and reports that effectively communicated complex financial data.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my unique perspective, problem-solving abilities, and design skills to XYZ Company. Your company’s reputation for creative excellence and commitment to innovation aligns perfectly with my career aspirations.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the chance to further discuss how my diverse background and passion for design can contribute to your team’s success and bring a fresh perspective to your creative projects.

Cover Letter Ten: Addressing a Gap Due to Pursuing Personal Goals

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Project Manager position at XYZ Company. With over eight years of experience in project management and a proven track record of delivering successful projects, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your team’s success.

You may notice a six-month gap in my employment history from early to mid-2021. During this time, I decided to take a personal sabbatical to pursue a long-standing personal goal – climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. This experience not only challenged me physically and mentally but also reinforced my resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving skills – qualities that I believe are essential for effective project management.

In my previous role as a Senior Project Manager at ABC Corporation, I successfully led cross-functional teams in delivering complex projects on time and within budget. I am skilled in project planning, risk management, and stakeholder communication, consistently achieving client satisfaction rates above 95%.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my project management expertise and passion for driving results to XYZ Company. Your company’s reputation for excellence in project delivery and commitment to employee growth aligns perfectly with my career goals.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the chance to further discuss how I can contribute to your team’s success and deliver high-impact projects at XYZ Company.

Cover Letter Eleven: Explaining a Gap Due to Pursuing Professional Certification

I am excited to apply for the Human Resources Manager position at XYZ Company. With over ten years of experience in HR and a recently acquired SHRM-SCP certification, I am confident in my ability to make a significant contribution to your team and drive HR initiatives that support your organization’s goals.

You may notice a four-month gap in my employment history in 2022. During this time, I decided to take a short break from my career to fully dedicate myself to preparing for the SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) exam. This rigorous certification process not only enhanced my knowledge of strategic HR practices but also reinforced my commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

In my previous role as an HR Business Partner at ABC Corporation, I successfully implemented a company-wide performance management system that aligned individual goals with organizational objectives, resulting in a 25% increase in employee engagement. I am skilled in talent acquisition, employee relations, and HR strategy development.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my HR expertise and passion for driving employee success to XYZ Company. Your company’s reputation for excellence in people management and commitment to creating a positive workplace culture aligns perfectly with my own values and career aspirations.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the chance to further discuss how I can contribute to your team’s success and develop HR strategies that support your organization’s growth.

Cover Letter Twelve: Addressing a Gap Due to Temporary Consulting Work

I am writing to apply for the Marketing Manager position at XYZ Company. With over seven years of experience in marketing and a proven track record of developing successful campaigns, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your team’s success and drive marketing initiatives that generate results.

You may notice a one-year gap in my traditional employment history from 2021 to 2022. During this time, I decided to pursue temporary consulting work, providing marketing strategy and execution services to several small businesses and startups. This experience not only diversified my skill set but also honed my ability to adapt quickly to new industries and challenges.

In my previous role as a Marketing Specialist at ABC Corporation, I developed and executed multi-channel marketing campaigns that increased brand awareness by 40% and generated a 25% increase in lead generation. I am skilled in market research, content creation, and data-driven decision-making.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my marketing expertise and entrepreneurial mindset to XYZ Company. Your company’s reputation for innovative marketing strategies and commitment to staying ahead of industry trends aligns perfectly with my career goals.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the chance to further discuss how I can contribute to your team’s success and develop marketing initiatives that drive business growth at XYZ Company.

Cover Letter Thirteen: Explaining a Gap Due to Caring for a Personal Health Issue

I am excited to apply for the Customer Success Manager position at XYZ Company. With over six years of experience in customer success and a passion for building long-lasting client relationships, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your team’s success and drive customer satisfaction.

You may notice a nine-month gap in my employment history from late 2021 to mid-2022. During this time, I faced a personal health challenge that required my full attention and time to address. Thankfully, I have made a complete recovery and am now ready to fully dedicate myself to my career once again.

In my previous role as a Customer Success Specialist at ABC Corporation, I consistently exceeded customer retention targets, achieving a 95% renewal rate among my client portfolio. I am skilled in account management, relationship building, and proactively identifying and addressing customer needs.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my customer success expertise and passion for driving client satisfaction to XYZ Company. Your company’s reputation for exceptional customer service and commitment to building long-term partnerships aligns perfectly with my values and career goals.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the chance to further discuss how I can contribute to your team’s success and help drive customer loyalty and growth at XYZ Company.

Cover Letter Fourteen: Addressing a Gap Due to Pursuing a Creative Passion

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Content Strategist position at XYZ Company. With over five years of experience in content creation and a recently published novel under my belt, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your team’s success and develop engaging content strategies.

You may notice a one-year gap in my traditional employment history from 2021 to 2022. During this time, I made the bold decision to take a sabbatical and dedicate myself to writing my first novel. This creative pursuit not only sharpened my writing skills but also reinforced my ability to craft compelling stories, engage audiences, and meet ambitious deadlines.

In my previous role as a Content Marketing Specialist at ABC Corporation, I developed and executed content strategies that increased website traffic by 50% and generated a 30% increase in lead generation. I am skilled in SEO optimization, social media management, and data-driven content creation.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my content expertise and creative mindset to XYZ Company. Your company’s reputation for innovative content marketing and commitment to storytelling aligns perfectly with my own passions and career aspirations.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the chance to further discuss how I can contribute to your team’s success and develop content strategies that captivate audiences and drive business growth at XYZ Company.

Cover Letter Fifteen: Explaining a Gap Due to Pursuing Language Studies Abroad

I am excited to apply for the International Sales Representative position at XYZ Company. With over four years of experience in sales and a recently completed intensive language immersion program in Spain, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your team’s success and drive sales growth in international markets.

You may notice a six-month gap in my employment history in 2022. During this time, I decided to pursue an intensive Spanish language immersion program in Madrid. This experience not only enhanced my language proficiency but also deepened my understanding of cross-cultural communication and international business practices.

In my previous role as a Sales Associate at ABC Corporation, I consistently exceeded sales targets, achieving 120% of my quota in my last fiscal year. I am skilled in relationship building, negotiations, and adapting my sales approach to diverse customer needs and cultural contexts.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my sales expertise and language skills to XYZ Company. Your company’s reputation for success in international markets and commitment to cultural diversity align perfectly with my career goals and personal values.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the chance to further discuss how I can contribute to your team’s success and help drive sales growth in Spanish-speaking markets at XYZ Company.

Addressing employment gaps in your cover letter can be a challenging but crucial aspect of your job search.

By being proactive, honest, and highlighting the valuable experiences and skills you gained during your time away from the traditional workforce, you can effectively showcase your unique value proposition to potential employers.

Remember, every candidate’s journey is different, and it’s essential to tailor your cover letter to your specific circumstances and the requirements of the job you’re applying for.

Use these 15 sample cover letters as a starting point, but don’t be afraid to infuse your personality, experiences, and accomplishments into your writing.

By crafting a compelling cover letter that addresses your employment gap head-on, you can demonstrate your resilience, adaptability, and commitment to your career growth.

So, embrace your unique story, showcase your strengths, and confidently pursue your next career opportunity.

An Example Cover Letter Explaining a Gap in Employment

When you are applying for jobs, hiring managers will always notice gaps in employment. They’ll understandably wonder what happened. Are you at high risk of quitting? Have you experienced performance issues or exhibited irresponsible behavior in the past? 

It’s very important that you don’t ignore or gloss over an employment gap. The best way is to deal with it is honesty. And the best place to do this is in your cover letter. The tips below will explain how to address common scenarios where you may have a gap in your employment, both good and bad. Keep reading, there’s also a sample cover letter explaining a gap in employment.

How Long is Too Long of an Employment Gap?

There’s no “unacceptable” length for an employment gap per se as there are many valid reasons why you have been out of the workforce for a year — continuing education, raising a family, or dealing with an illness. Most HRs will view a 1-5 year gap in employment as a reasonable break. But longer gaps, think 5+ years, will likely warrant a more detailed explanation in your cover letter. 

How Do You Explain a Gap in Employment in a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is meant to complement your resume — highlight your strengths, showcase your motivation, and address some of the shortcomings such as an employment gap. The best place to clarify the gap in employment is the body of your cover letter. Think second or third paragraph. 

Here’s a sample cover letter structure you may want to go for:

• Introduction: Hook the reader with your motivation and key qualifications.  
• Second paragraph: Reiterate the main skill or experience you are bringing to the table.
• Third: Briefly address your employment gap and state why you are eager to get back on track. 
• Conclusion. End on a high note. Mention the value you can bring to the company or speak about your passion for the job at hand. 

Now let’s look at greater depth on how you can turn the above outline into a persuasive cover letter explaining the gaps in employment!

Be Direct When a Gap in Employment is Objectively Positive

Some gaps in employment are positive things. Even so, you still need to address them. Otherwise, a potential employer might make assumptions. Instead, take advantage of the opportunity to share something positive. Address your gap directly if you are a homemaker returning to work , received a fellowship to pursue an academic interest, taken a hiatus to do volunteer work, or worked on an independent project. Not only will this clear up any misunderstandings, but it could also be a positive addition to your application packet.

Some Gaps Can Be Ignored

Before you spend time worrying about an employment gap, ask yourself if you need to address the issue at all. For example, if you have five or more years of steady employment history, there’s no need to bring up a gap in employment before that. Likewise, you don’t need to mention gaps in employment that occurred while you were a college student. You can also ignore any gap that is less than six months. 

Finally, job hopping can be a problem, but it is not the same as having an employment gap. How you handle job-hopping really depends on the industry, and what you were doing at the time. For example, some fields like retail , hospitality, customer service , etc, tend to have a quick turnover, and employment periods tend to be shorter.

Add The Gap in The Closing Paragraph as a Power Move

If you can put a positive spin on a gap in employment, especially a recent one, add it to your closing paragraph. You can use the gap to tell prospective employers that you are now ready to move forward and do great things in your career.

For example, imagine that you are returning to work after studying for a year. You could close your cover letter by writing:

‘I was fortunate enough to spend the past year studying Organizational Psychology at Boston University. I am now ready to take the skills I have acquired and apply them as your new manager of human resources. I would love to meet with you to discuss your needs.’

Never Give Too Much Information

Remember that you are not obligated to share all of the details about a negative gap in employment. Keep in mind that a previous employer is likely to be pretty tight-lipped about a negative relationship with you unless it is something they are legally obligated to disclose. While you shouldn’t lie, you don’t have to go into great detail. 

For example, don’t go into detail about an ongoing personality conflict with a previous employer that culminated in a heated argument, and resulted in damaging your reputation on the local business scene. Instead, simply mention a difference in opinion or conflicting working styles that led to your decision to rethink your career options.

Employment Gap Cover Letter Sample in .docx Format

Download example (Word version)

Example Cover Letter Explaining a Gap in Employment – Text Format

Dear Ms. Wilkerson, 

I am writing this letter to apply for the position of General Manager of your San Diego restaurant division. I have ten years of restaurant management experience, before that, I worked in both fronts of the house and back of house positions in the fine-dining space on the west coast. I believe the experience I have closely mirrors what you need in a GM.

As someone who works in the food-service industry, I have a passion for catering people. That passion extends beyond providing delicious food to the customers who come into my venus. Because of this, I recently took a year-long hiatus to help create nutritional programs for schools in developing nations. In addition to being privileged to help others, I learned quite a bit about reducing food waste and working within a very stringent budget. I know that I can turn those skills into cost savings for any restaurant that I manage.

I am ready to jump back into the game and restart my career as a restaurant manager. I am confident that I am the perfect person to lead your restaurants in the San Diego area. Let’s meet to discuss this further!

Thanks for your time,

Jeffrey Ninja

How To Address a Gap in Employment? More Examples!

Still not sure how to compose the right narrative? Here are several quick snippets you can use in your cover letter:

Explaining a Gap in Employment Due to Family 

For the past three years, I’ve been serving as a Resident Home Educator, to my two kids, aged 6 and 9. While I’ve been out of my original career lane as a Communications Manager, I still practiced and developed my skills. Homeschooling my children have helped me improve my presentational skills and research skills. I’m now an expert in breaking down complex concepts into engaging short narratives and feel that this ability will help me find success in a new role as an Editorial Strategist with your firm. 

Explaining a Gap in Employment Due to Mental Illness

After successfully completing the $50 million M&A deal at my previous consulting firm, I decided to take a year off to restore my mental health. This time has also helped me reflect on my priorities and re-evaluate my career path, leading me to the idea of transitioning to a non-profit sector. I believe Charity Quest can greatly benefit from my past financial advisory experience to ensure better P&L management and cash flow. 

Explaining a Gap in Employment Due to Covid-19

I greatly enjoyed working at Nightime Lounge, where I served as a chief mixologist for the past 1.5 years and a half. The restaurant manager, James Welsh, can provide further reference on my performance. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, I was furloughed. However, I used my free time to create a YouTube channel and short cocktail mixology course with several signature recipes. You can review both on my website. 

How Do You Explain Gap Year in Cover Letter?

The easiest way to bring up your gap year is by briefly explaining what you did and what skills or experiences you’ve obtained along your journey. Don’t talk about the fun travel you did or lounge time you had. Instead, focus on the vocations, interests, and perhaps extra education that you’ve pursued along the way. 

Here’s a quick example of how to address a gap year in your cover letter:

“After completing my BS degree in Biology at Denver State University, I chose to take a gap year to reflect on my studies and determine which career path may work best for me. During that time, I volunteered with the West Coast Marine Savers and my experience lead me to discover my passion for water conservation. When I noticed an opening at your firm, I was excited to jump at the opportunity for applying.”

How to Explain Gaps in Employment Due to Disability?

Becoming temporary or permanently disabled can have a severe mental toll on you, which is understandable. But don’t let your doubts or negative emotions get into the way of your job search. Instead of treating (and thus speaking about) your disability as a weakness, merely acknowledge it as one of the facts. Then move on to highlighting some of your other strengths. 

Here’s a quick example of how you can address disability in your cover letter:

“ Two years ago, I got into a bad car accident and was left disabled for the following 1.5 months. Today, I have fully recovered mentally, yet still, have some difficulties walking. However, my condition in no way affects my ability to create user-friendly website designs and, specifically, material design applications.”

Final Tip: Keep it Brief, Yet Direct

Don’t make the mistake of drawing more attention to gaps in your employment than you need to. Your cover letter should focus on your skills, passions, and fit for the job. If you spend more than a couple of sentences over-explaining a gap in your work history, that’s going to be problematic. Be brief and matter of fact.

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Research assistant cover letter example and quick career tips, a compelling and motivating scholarship cover letter example, a convincing call center cover letter example, sample cover letter to recruitment agency.

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• Job Seeker Resources
• Last Updated: February 17, 2023

How to Write a Cover Letter After a Gap in Employment

For many, an extended leave from the workforce can make the job application process especially daunting. Without recent experience, it can be difficult to build a convincing argument for why you are a better fit for your position of choice than other candidates. Knowing how to write a cover letter that effectively presents your skills and professional experience in this situation is critical.

More often than not, a traditional cover letter template will suit your needs—even if you’re not a professional writer. Before we examine tips on how to explain gaps in employment, let’s go over the basics of how to make a cover letter.

Create a simple cover letter outline.

Regardless of your current employment situation,  there are a few general guidelines all good cover letters should follow . These documents should be 3–4 paragraphs long and include a short introductory paragraph followed by 1–2 body paragraphs providing details on your skills, qualifications, experience, and achievements. Finally, you should conclude your cover letter with a short closing paragraph that includes your preferred phone number and an invitation to call you to discuss the opportunity further.

For a more detailed cover letter outline and additional guidance, check out our companion articles, “ Cover Letter Writing Dos and Don’ts ” or “ A Cover Letter That Works ,” which also includes a cover letter template you can use to create your own.

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Decide if you need to mention your employment gap.

This may be one of the more complicated choices you make with regards to your cover letter. Opinions vary widely on whether you should include an employment gap explanation or if you need to clarify why you have been unemployed for an extended period of time, but in the end there are two major factors to consider:

1. Is it relevant?  If you discovered a new passion for healthcare while attending to a sick relative, mentioning it will give your letter a personal touch that can set it apart from the rest. However, unless the reason for your gap in employment is directly related to the position you are applying for, consider leaving it out of your cover letter. If employers are interested in knowing your reasons, they can ask during an interview, when you will have the opportunity to explain the situation more fully.

2. How extensive is the gap?  Another point to consider when deciding if or how to explain gaps in employment is the length of time you were out of work. A few months of unemployment can be discussed in an interview without taking up precious real estate in your letter. By contrast, if you have been out of work for several years, you’ll need to  give details on your absence from the workforce within your resume  and should at least mention it somewhere in the body of your cover letter (“After caring for my ailing parents over the past four years, I am eager to return to the workforce and utilize my newfound skills as a patient advocate”).

What to avoid:  Take care not to focus on the unemployment itself. Even if it led to a time of self-discovery and/or you were raising a family, this information doesn’t need to be the primary focus of your cover letter. You also should not feel the need to apologize for your employment gap. If you choose to talk about why you left the workforce, keep it brief (no more than a sentence). The person reading your cover letter cares about your qualifications and future value to the company more than anything about your time spent between jobs.

Instead of justifying why you should be offered an interview  despite  your jobless period, concentrate on the skills and/or background you have that will positively influence the organization.

Research how to make a cover letter that speaks directly to your prospective employer.  

Examine the company’s website, social media presence, and job ad, and reach out to any contacts you might have within the organization to find out more about its culture and values . Strategize how to write a cover letter that exemplifies these qualities while highlighting your talents and achievements. If possible, specify how your experience will be helpful for particular processes or efforts within the organization; it will prove just how motivated and invested you are in this opportunity!

What to avoid: It can be easy to dismiss professional achievements if they occurred far enough in the past, but passing these up for a more recent—but less relevant—activity would be a mistake. Likewise, you shouldn’t feel like you must only highlight examples from your experience in the field. A mix of both can give your cover letter balance and offer broader insight into your capabilities. The key is to make the best case for why the prospective employer should interview/hire you.

Don’t ignore your past work experience. An achievement from earlier in your career can still have a place on your cover letter, especially if it’s directly relevant to the position you’re pursuing.

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Highlight the ways you have maintained and enhanced your skills.

Employers are most concerned with what you can bring to their organization. When choosing what to highlight in your cover letter, consider any volunteering you have done recently (are you active in the PTA? Do you serve your community as a volunteer firefighter?) or extra training/workshops you have participated in while unemployed. Did you add new skills or expand your expertise in ways that would benefit your future employer? For example, “As room parent, I organized events for classes of 18–24 children and their parents, coordinating with the PTA Treasurer and teacher for scheduling and budget planning.”

What to avoid: Even if you don’t offer a specific employment gap explanation, the person reading your application will likely notice it. Don’t ignore that time in your life or try to sweep it under the rug; make sure you include at least one example of how you’ve kept your skills sharp. Make it clear that you are prepared to rejoin the working world and contribute to the company. And if you haven’t been engaged in any volunteer efforts or continuing education, start now! It will prove that you are motivated and proactive.

No matter how you choose to approach your employment gap on your cover letter, the most important thing is to highlight the ways you can help a prospective employer. A big part of knowing how to write a cover letter is customizing the document for the specific position. Many employers are willing to look past a gap in employment for a candidate that has the right attitude and the skills needed for the open position.

Keeping this information in mind will help you write a good cover letter to explain your employment history. For more tips on how to write a cover letter, check out our Job Seeker Resource Center , or create an account and use our automated cover letter builder.

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