Fill in the [brackets]
COVER LETTER LINE (short) "From [month/year] to [month/year] I [was made redundant when [Company] restructured, and used the time to complete [course/certificate] and [volunteer with X / freelance for Y / care for a family member]]. I'm now ready to return to [type of work] full-time." IN AN INTERVIEW (spoken, 20-30 seconds) "After [X years] at [Company], my role was disestablished in a restructure in [month/year]. Since then I've been [looking for the right role in [field] / doing [course/volunteering/contracting]]. That time has given me [a clearer sense of what I want / new skills in X], and I'm really keen to bring that to this role." IF THE GAP WAS HEALTH, CARING OR FAMILY "I took [X months] out of paid work to [care for a family member / deal with a health matter]. That's now resolved and I'm ready and available for full-time work." CV HEADLINE ENTRY [Month/Year - Month/Year] Career break / Redundancy and career development: [Certification, volunteering, freelance projects, caring responsibilities].
Tips
- Tell the truth, briefly, then pivot to the present. Do not over-explain or apologise.
- Redundancy is common and doesn't carry stigma in the way many people fear. Say 'my role was disestablished'.
- You don't have to give health details. 'A personal/family matter that has been resolved' is enough.
- Fill the gap genuinely: short courses, volunteering, freelancing, or helping a community organisation all count.
- Use years rather than months on your CV if the gap is short.
General information, not legal advice. Keep a copy of everything you send. Spotted something out of date? Email help@unemployed.nz.