Gaps in your CV? No worries!

A job termination, an illness, a move—and suddenly there’s a gap in your resume. Recruiter Susana Binz from Stettler Consulting explains how to address gaps in your resume.

The 6-Week Rule in the CV

Stettler: 
Susana, at what point does a gap in a resume become a problem?

Susana Binz-Adam
A break of up to six weeks is hardly noticeable. After eight weeks, an explanation is needed; otherwise, questions arise that, in the worst case, could end an application prematurely. Not because gaps in a resume are forbidden, but because hiring managers want to know what happened during that time.

Stettler:
What advice would you give to someone who currently has a “gap in their resume”? 

Susana Binz-Adam:
Make the most of the time. Continuing education, volunteer work, or learning a new language: Someone who can demonstrate they’ve been active during the gap tells a very different story than someone who has simply “waited.” 

The Right Language

Stettler:  
How should you describe a gap in your resume?

Susana Binz-Adam:
I would never use the term “unemployed” on a resume. “Job seeker” sounds more active and significantly more positive. It’s even better to provide the context directly in the resume. That way, there are fewer questions. In a large corporation, just a few seconds often determine whether a resume gets read further. All the more important, therefore, is to provide information in a clear and complete manner. More context means fewer follow-up questions and thus more opportunities.

• Example Phrases for a CV:
  – Further education in the field of X
• – Job search following a change of residence
• – Active job search following a layoff
• – Job seeker due to the bankruptcy of company XY

Stettler:
What applies in the event of illness or caring for a family member?

Susana Binz-Adam:
Mention it in your resume, but don’t explain it. “Health-related leave” or “caring for a family member” is perfectly sufficient. Details aren’t necessary; this is a very personal matter. Recruiters respond to such entries with respect. Anyone who has cared for another person has demonstrated responsibility and empathy. That speaks in your favor. 

Stettler:
How should I list a sabbatical on my resume?  

Susana Binz-Adam:
There are two scenarios to consider here: If it’s an official sabbatical provided by your employer, there’s no gap in your resume. However, if you take time off on your own initiative—for example, to travel—this period should be listed on your resume.

LinkedIn, Cover Letter & Interview

Stettler: 
How do you handle a gap on LinkedIn?

Susana Binz-Adam:
Consistency is key. Recruiters compare LinkedIn profiles and resumes very closely. Discrepancies stand out immediately. I often find that LinkedIn profiles are more up-to-date than the resume. If something is unclear to me in the resume, I check LinkedIn first.

Stettler:
Should the gap be mentioned in the cover letter as well?

Susana Binz-Adam:
No. The cover letter is about your own skills and your motivation for this specific position. It’s sufficient if the gap is noted on your resume. 

Stettler:
And in the job interview—how do you address gaps?

Susana Binz-Adam:
If you’ve been invited, you’ve already cleared the first hurdle. During the interview, the rule is: explain the gap briefly, but don’t make excuses for it. Furthermore, it is important not to speak negatively about one’s former employer. Most importantly, maintain a positive, forward-looking perspective.

Stettler:
What personally convinces you when reviewing an application with a gap in employment?

Susana Binz-Adam:
If someone clearly explains a gap and shows that they used the time wisely—whether for further education, caregiving, or a deliberate break—I believe them immediately. What gives me pause, however, is a résumé that has clearly been manipulated to fit a narrative. Inconsistencies do not go unnoticed, and references can be cross-checked. Misrepresentations do not pay off—they are, as the saying goes, short-lived.