A study1 found that work gaps on a resume lower the chance of getting an interview by 45%. Employers assume the worst when they see gaps between work experiences on a resume. A gap might mean the person may do it again. If appropriately addressed, however, your employment gaps shouldn’t be a cause for concern. Here’s what you can do: a. Use the functional or combination resume format to emphasize your relevant skills and education. b. Show the gap on your resume. There’s no point in hiding it. But briefly explain what you were doing during that period in your cover letter. Some reasons are legitimate (like job loss due to an economic crisis, starting a family, becoming a stay-at-home parent, recovery from an accident or severe illness, etc.), so there’s no harm in stating yours. c. List any projects or activities—paid or unpaid—that you’re involved in during the work gap. These may include part-time, freelance, and volunteer work. d. No need to explain an old gap that occurred more than ten years ago or a short gap that happened for less than six months. It doesn’t matter and will perhaps go unnoticed. e. Never apologize for the gap. The hiring manager will understand if you assure them the work gap won’t happen again.