Looking for a new job but have a gap in your employment history? A reference letter can help explain the reasons behind the gap and assure potential employers that you are still a strong candidate. In this article, we will guide you on how to write a reference letter for gap in employment, provide examples, and answer frequently asked questions.
Tips for Writing a Reference Letter For Gap In Employment
When writing a reference letter for gap in employment, consider the following tips:
1. Explain the reason for the gap
Be honest and explain the reason for the gap in employment. Whether it was due to personal reasons, travel, further education, or job loss, provide a clear explanation.
2. Highlight skills and experience gained during the gap
If applicable, mention any skills or experience gained during the gap that could be beneficial to the job you are applying for.
3. Keep it concise
A reference letter should be one page or less. Keep it concise and to the point.
4. Provide contact information
Include contact information for the person writing the reference letter in case the potential employer needs to follow up with additional questions.
5. Customize for each job application
Customize the reference letter for each job application. Highlight skills and experiences that are relevant to the job you are applying for.
6. Proofread
Always proofread the reference letter before submitting it to potential employers.
Examples of Reference Letter For Gap In Employment
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the [Position Name] at [Company Name]. [Applicant’s Name] worked for me at [Previous Company Name] for three years before taking a career break to take care of their family. During their time at [Previous Company Name], [Applicant’s Name] was an exceptional employee, and I can confidently vouch for their skills and work ethic.
During [Applicant’s Name]’s career break, they took up freelance work in [Skill/Industry] and also volunteered at a local non-profit organization where they gained valuable experience in [Skill/Industry]. I believe that the skills and experience [Applicant’s Name] gained during the break will greatly benefit [Company Name] and the [Position Name].
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the [Position Name] at [Company Name]. I had the pleasure of working with [Applicant’s Name] for two years at [Previous Company Name]. Unfortunately, they had to take a career break due to personal reasons.
During their career break, [Applicant’s Name] took online courses and attended workshops to keep their skills up to date. They also volunteered at a local non-profit organization where they gained valuable experience in [Skill/Industry]. I am confident that the skills and experience [Applicant’s Name] gained during the break will greatly benefit [Company Name] and the [Position Name].
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the [Position Name] at [Company Name]. [Applicant’s Name] worked for me at [Previous Company Name] for three years before taking a career break to travel the world. During their time at [Previous Company Name], [Applicant’s Name] was an exceptional employee, and I can confidently vouch for their skills and work ethic.
During their travels, [Applicant’s Name] volunteered at various organizations where they gained valuable experience in [Skill/Industry]. I believe that the skills and experience [Applicant’s Name] gained during their travels will greatly benefit [Company Name] and the [Position Name].
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the [Position Name] at [Company Name]. [Applicant’s Name] worked for me at [Previous Company Name] for six years before taking a career break to care for their elderly parents. During their time at [Previous Company Name], [Applicant’s Name] was an exceptional employee and a valuable member of our team.
During their career break, [Applicant’s Name] took up freelance work in [Skill/Industry] and also volunteered at a local non-profit organization providing care for the elderly. I am confident that the skills and experience [Applicant’s Name] gained during the break will greatly benefit [Company Name] and the [Position Name].
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the [Position Name] at [Company Name]. I had the pleasure of working with [Applicant’s Name] for four years at [Previous Company Name] before they had to take a career break following a job loss. During their time at [Previous Company Name], [Applicant’s Name] was an exceptional employee, and I can confidently vouch for their skills and work ethic.
During their career break, [Applicant’s Name] took on freelance work in [Skill/Industry] and also volunteered at a local non-profit organization where they gained valuable experience in [Skill/Industry]. I am confident that the skills and experience [Applicant’s Name] gained during the break will greatly benefit [Company Name] and the [Position Name].
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the [Position Name] at [Company Name]. [Applicant’s Name] worked for me at [Previous Company Name] for eight years before taking a career break to care for their newborn child. During their time at [Previous Company Name], [Applicant’s Name] was an exceptional employee and a valuable member of our team.
During their career break, [Applicant’s Name] took online courses in [Skill/Industry] and also volunteered at a local non-profit organization where they gained valuable experience in [Skill/Industry]. I am confident that the skills and experience [Applicant’s Name] gained during the break will greatly benefit [Company Name] and the [Position Name].
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the [Position Name] at [Company Name]. [Applicant’s Name] worked for me at [Previous Company Name] for five years before taking a career break to pursue further education. During their time at [Previous Company Name], [Applicant’s Name] was an exceptional employee, and I can confidently vouch for their skills and work ethic.
During their career break, [Applicant’s Name] completed a degree in [Area of Study] from [University Name], where they gained valuable knowledge and skills in [Skill/Industry]. I am confident that the skills and experience [Applicant’s Name] gained during the break will greatly benefit [Company Name] and the [Position Name].
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should a reference letter for gap in employment be?
A reference letter for gap in employment should be one page or less.
What should be included in a reference letter for gap in employment?
A reference letter for gap in employment should include the reason for the gap, any skills or experience gained during the gap, and contact information for the person writing the letter.
How can I customize a reference letter for each job application?
You can customize a reference letter for each job application by highlighting skills and experiences that are relevant to the job you are applying for.
What should I do if I have multiple gaps in my employment history?
You can ask for multiple reference letters, each explaining the reason for the specific gap in employment.
Can I use a reference letter from a previous employer during my gap in employment?
Yes, you can use a reference letter from a previous employer during your gap in employment. Make sure to explain the reason for your gap in employment and any skills or experience gained during the gap.
Is it necessary to mention the gap in employment during an interview?
Yes, it is necessary to mention the gap in employment during an interview. Be honest and explain the reason for the gap and any skills or experience gained during the gap.
Conclusion
A reference letter for gap in employment can be a valuable asset to your job application. Be honest about the reason for the gap and highlight any skills or experience gained during the break. Remember to keep the letter concise, and customize it for each job application. With a strong reference letter, you can assure potential employers that you are still a strong candidate despite any gaps in your employment history.