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Anonymous A
on Mar 12, 2021
Global
I want to receive updates regarding this question via email.

HR round

Hi All,

I have around 3 months gap in my career, I wanted to look for a better job so I left my previous organization and started applying for other positions. If my HR asks about this gap what should I tell ? Because these 3 months were not at all productive. Some possible good answers to this question. 

Thanks

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Top answer
Francesco
Coach
on Mar 13, 2021
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success: ➡ interviewoffers.com | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching

Hi there,

You mean the gap is now (eg in your CV you listed the end of your previous job in Dec 2020)?

Honestly, it sounds strange that you left your job in the middle of COVID without any alternative. The suspicion will be that you have been fired.

Possible things you can say you have done in the meantime include:

  • Learning a new language
  • Start a small side business
  • Online education
  • Volunteer activities

Obviously, you can’t lie. If you have not done any and have no plans to do so, you cannot use them.

If instead you had a gap in the past between jobs – that’s not an issue. You can just say you wanted to take a break between starting a new job and the previous one.

Best,

Francesco

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Gaurav
Coach
on Mar 12, 2021
#1 MBB Coach(Placed 750+ in MBBs & 1250+ in Tier2)| The Only 360° coach(Ex-McKinsey+Certified Coach+Active recruiter)

Hi there, 

The situation is not that bad at all and depends on how you present it - it's just a three-month gap after all.

You were looking for a better job opportunity, you took some personal time, etc. No need to lie. Agree with Adi.

Cheers, GB 

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Deleted user
on Mar 12, 2021

Thats totally okay to have gaps, just have a good positive story ready. Dont lie! 

If there is nothing really noteworthy to mention e.g. internships, volunteer work etc you can always say you took some time off to look after personal matters and in parallel look for a better opportunity. Dont be afraid and ashamed of this..sadly many people feel the pressure to have no gaps in CV. Be confident and positive.

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Ian
Coach
on Mar 12, 2021
Top US BCG / MBB Coach - 5,000 sessions |Tech, Platinion, Big 4 | 9/9 personal interviews passed | 95% candidate success

Hi there,

Totally agree with Gaurav, especially during covid. This isn't that abnormal during this period.

As long as you make it clear you left the company of your own volation, and are being very deliberate in your job search (implying/signalling that you've turned down other offers for less-than-perfect roles), then you're fine.

That said, I would also try to fill that gap a bit. Get some certifications, start a bit of a side business, etc.

Good luck!

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