Could a 9-month gap on my CV deprioritize my profile for recruiters? I took this time to prepare for the GMAT and case interviews. However, due to slow recruiting processes, a hiring freeze, and some rejections, things have slowed down. What should I write on my CV to prevent that bias?”
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Could a 9-month gap on my CV deprioritize my profile for recruiters?
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Hi,
A 9-month gap can raise questions, so it should be framed clearly and then moved on. Recruiters mainly react to unexplained gaps, not the gap itself.
On the CV, I’d make it explicit and neutral: something like “GMAT & consulting interview preparation” if you cannot justify it otherwise. That already signals intent and direction. If you have anything tangible (score, cases practiced, courses), even better; keep it factual, no over-explaining.
Then use the cover letter to address it in one clean line, not defensively: you took time to prepare, the market slowed due to external factors, and now you’re fully focused on recruiting.
If you want, feel free to share your resume. I’m happy to give you direct feedback.
Regards,
Franco
Yes a 9 month gap can raise question marks for recruiters because most candidates manage GMAT and case prep in parallel to a regular job or studies. So a dedicated gap stands out.
My advice would be not to explicitly highlight this on the CV. Trying to explain might draw more attention to it. If you get through the screening, there will be moments in the interview where you can make the right case for what you did during that time and the rationale behind it.
Good luck !
