Why Empathy Matters When Addressing Career Gaps on CVs

In today’s professional world, career gaps on a CV often raise questions for hiring managers. While it’s natural to inquire about these breaks, how such questions are approached can make a profound impact on the candidate and the hiring process. Behind every gap lies a story—some uplifting, others filled with challenges like battling illness or caring for loved ones.

This article delves into the importance of addressing CV gaps with empathy and understanding, offering actionable insights for hiring managers.

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The Human Stories Behind CV Gaps

Life is unpredictable, and at some point, many professionals face circumstances that require them to pause their careers. Common reasons for career gaps include:

1. Health Challenges: Illnesses, like cancer or chronic conditions, often demand extended time off for recovery or treatment.
2. Caregiving Responsibilities: Taking care of aging parents, a sick spouse, or children can lead to time away from work.
3. Personal Loss: Grieving the death of a loved one is emotionally taxing and can make continuing work impossible.
4. Mental Health Needs: Burnout or other mental health struggles require people to step back and prioritize self-care.
5. Unexpected Life Changes: Relocations, career pivots, or other life events can result in gaps.

1 in 3 People Will Face a Serious Health Challenge

Cancer statistics alone reveal that 1 in 3 people will be diagnosed in their lifetime. Many others will lose loved ones to the disease, taking time off work to care for family or process their grief. For these individuals, explaining a career gap may feel like reliving some of their most vulnerable moments.

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How to Approach Career Gaps with Empathy

Asking about a career gap doesn’t have to feel like an interrogation. It’s an opportunity to connect with candidates on a human level and foster mutual respect. Here’s how hiring managers can do it right:

1. Start with an Open and Supportive Tone

Instead of jumping straight to the gap, phrase your question with sensitivity. For example:

• “I noticed a career break on your CV. Would you be comfortable sharing more about that time?”

This opens the door for the candidate to share their story without feeling judged.

2. Acknowledge and Validate Their Experience

When candidates share difficult experiences, acknowledge their courage. A simple statement like “I’m sorry to hear that” or “That must have been challenging” can go a long way in building rapport.

3. Focus on Their Strengths and Achievements

After addressing the gap, pivot the conversation toward their skills and how they align with the role. For example:

• “It sounds like you’ve overcome a lot. Let’s discuss your experience at [previous role].”

This shift helps move the discussion forward without dwelling on the gap.

4. Avoid Making Assumptions

Never assume the reason for a gap. Some may stem from positive events, such as travel or pursuing education, while others may be deeply personal. Let the candidate share as much—or as little—as they’re comfortable with.

5. Practice Active Listening

Pay attention to what the candidate shares. Showing genuine interest in their journey builds trust and sets the stage for a more productive interview.

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Why Empathy Matters in Hiring

Addressing career gaps with empathy offers several benefits:

1. Builds Trust and Loyalty: Candidates are more likely to accept an offer and stay committed when they feel valued during the hiring process.
2. Enhances Your Employer Brand: Word spreads quickly about how companies treat candidates. A compassionate approach reflects positively on your organization.
3. Attracts Diverse Talent: By normalizing career gaps, companies can tap into a broader, more diverse talent pool with unique experiences.
4. Improves Workplace Culture: Hiring with empathy fosters an inclusive environment, encouraging employees to bring their authentic selves to work.

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A Perspective Shift: The Insignificance of Career Gaps

One day, many of us may face life events that force us to take a step back from work—be it a health challenge, personal loss, or caregiving responsibilities. At that moment, the “gap” on a CV will pale in comparison to the gap left by losing a loved one or facing a life-altering challenge.

As hiring managers, recognizing this reality can help us approach candidates with the understanding they deserve.

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How to Create an Empathetic Hiring Process

To ensure your hiring practices reflect compassion and inclusivity:

• Train Hiring Managers: Provide training on how to ask about CV gaps respectfully.
• Update Policies: Include a statement in your job postings that career gaps are understood and won’t negatively impact candidacy.
• Normalize Gaps: Highlight examples of successful employees who returned to work after a break.
• Provide Support: Offer onboarding programs for candidates re-entering the workforce after extended breaks.

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Final Thoughts: Compassion is Key

A career gap is not a red flag—it’s a reflection of life’s unpredictable nature. Whether a candidate stepped away for personal growth, health recovery, or caregiving, they bring resilience, adaptability, and valuable life experience to the table.

By addressing CV gaps with empathy and professionalism, you not only foster a positive candidate experience but also contribute to a culture where people feel valued for their skills, not judged by their circumstances.

Key Takeaways:

• Career gaps often reflect personal resilience and adaptability.
• Address them with empathy to build trust and strengthen your employer brand.
• Compassionate hiring practices attract diverse, talented professionals.

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Whether you’re hiring or seeking a job, remember: it’s not the gap in a career that defines someone—it’s how they’ve grown from it.