The best way to explain such an employment gap is to write down the exact period you were off, titling it as a “planned career break.” Underneath, you can include one or two sentences on why you took it (e.g. took three years off work to care for my growing children, who are now in elementary school).
Try talking about something you learned during your time in between jobs. Did you gain a new skill or develop deeper knowledge about a specific topic? Explain how that experience makes you a more qualified candidate for that employer or position.
5 tips for a good letter of explanation Keep it short and to the point. The mortgage underwriter is looking for clarification on a specific issue, so stick to that topic. Emphasize the circumstances that led to the issue. Explain how your finances have improved. Proofread your letter. Be nice.
How to explain employment gaps Be honest. Don't include your entire work history. Downplay smaller gaps by leaving out the month. Explain employment gaps in your cover letter. Highlight what you did accomplish while out of work.
Tips for writing a letter of explanation Provide all details the best you can, including correct dates and dollar amounts. Explain how and when all situations were resolved. If they are not resolved, explain that as well. Detail why problems won't happen again.
Be Honest: Briefly explain the reason for the gap (e.g., personal circumstances, health issues, education, caregiving, travel, job market challenges). Focus on Growth: Highlight any productive activities you engaged in during the gap, such as:
I would suggest a few things to say in the letter. Explain what caused the employment gap, and be honest about it. There are lots of reasons why people aren't employed. Be forthright about it, and tell the truth. You'll find mortgage lenders aren't as bad as they want to appear to be.
A letter of employment — sometimes called an employment verification letter — is written by an employer to verify an employee's working status. It confirms the employee's job title, salary, history at the organisation and the organisation's contact information.
In your cover letter or interview, briefly explain the reason for the gap and highlight any relevant experiences or skills gained during that time. Demonstrating how you stayed productive or kept your skills up-to-date will help present the gap more positively.
If you have to explain your employment gap during your interview, rehearse in advance, show confidence, and don't badmouth your former employer. Some valid reasons for an employment gap are family reasons, illnesses, and injuries, taking time to discover yourself or pursue your education, and even a failed business.