Evaluating Employment Gaps in Resumes

By Jeff Altman, The Big Game Hunter

Significant gaps in employment on a résumé are seen as a red flag by many recruiters.

While a steady work history is linked to dependability and integrity, unemployment has a bad connotation. Those with gaps in their employment history risk being perceived as lazy or distracted in their careers, and not as an in-demand asset in the eyes of future employers,” said Peter Yang, CEO and co-founder of ResumeGo, a resume-writing business based in New York City.

Recruiters, on the other hand, may make a mistake if they dismiss potentially quality and qualified individuals without providing them the opportunity to explain themselves.

“Making assumptions without first asking questions and gaining information could result in poor recruiting selections,” said one agency owner. “Do we have proof that this person is untrustworthy? Is it certain that this person cannot keep their job for an extended period of time? There is no proof of that.”

With unemployment as low as it is in much of the US, it’s critical for recruiters and hiring managers to be prepared to consider those who haven’t had the easiest time of their careers or who have taken non-linear career paths.