How do you perceive a gap in an interview candidate’s work history?

Our reader poll today asks: How do you perceive a gap in an interview candidate’s work history?

– Not a problem as long as they explain and it’s a good reason: 69%
– A big problem if they don’t proactively explain it: 16%
– I don’t care at all. I’m interested in their skills: 15%

Explain the gap. Gaps in your employment history aren’t an issue for interviewers – as long as you explain it. If you took time off to get a degree, raise your kids, care for a sick relative, or just “find yourself,” employers won’t have a problem with it. Avoid the temptation to not address it. While it may feel awkward to do so, clearly interviewers have a preference that you explain it proactively. Remember – if you don’t explain it, employers are legally prevented from asking you certain questions like marital or family status. If you don’t provide the explanation, you’re forcing them to dream up one of their own. That can lead to a bad outcome for you.

Do you agree with these poll results? Let us know in the comments below!

– Mike Figliuolo at thoughtLEADERS, LLC

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These results were originally a SmartPulse poll in SmartBrief on Leadership which tracks feedback from more than 210,000 business leaders. Get smarter on leadership and sign up for the SmartBrief on Leadership e-newsletter.