Explaining a career gap during an interview can feel daunting, but with the right approach, it doesn't have to be. Career breaks are more common than ever, whether taken for personal reasons, further education, travel, or to care for family. The key is to communicate your experience with honesty, clarity, and confidence.

Here’s how to talk about a career gap effectively:

✔ Be upfront and honest
Avoid skirting around the topic. Instead, acknowledge the gap directly and provide a brief, clear explanation. Transparency builds trust and shows you're comfortable owning your professional journey.

✔ Highlight what you did during the break
Whether you pursued additional training, freelanced, volunteered, or worked on personal development, these experiences are valuable. They demonstrate initiative, resilience, and a commitment to growth, even outside traditional employment.

✔ Connect it back to the role
Focus on how your time away has enhanced your perspective or equipped you with transferable skills. Did you improve your communication skills? Develop time management? Gain a fresh sense of purpose? Make the connection to the role you’re applying for.

✔ Keep the tone positive
Frame your gap as a period of learning and growth rather than a setback. Emphasising what you gained, rather than what you missed, leaves a strong, optimistic impression.

According to a 2024 LinkedIn survey, 51% of UK employers are open to hiring candidates with career gaps, provided the gap is explained thoughtfully and confidently. It’s not the gap that matters most; it’s how you present it.

Have you had to explain a career break in an interview?
We’d love to hear your story—share it in the comments below.
Need personalised advice? Contact our team at halecroftrecruitment.co.uk for expert one-to-one coaching and interview preparation.