Applying for a job can be challenging, especially if you have an employment gap in your history.
A well-crafted cover letter can explain this gap while highlighting your strengths. This ensures you make a positive impression on potential employers.
Below, we provide a template and sample. We also address some frequently asked questions about writing cover letters for positions with employment gaps. Additionally, we offer insights from readers.
Cover Letter with Employment Gap – Template
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Employer's Name]
[Company's Name]
[Company's Address]
[City, State, Zip]
Dear [Employer's Name],
I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company's Name] as advertised [where you found the job listing]. With [number] years of experience in [Your Industry/Field], I am eager to bring my expertise in [specific skills or areas] to your esteemed team.
I would like to address a gap in my employment history that may appear in my résumé. From [start date] to [end date], I took a sabbatical to [briefly explain reason, e.g., focus on family obligations, pursue further education, recover from an illness, etc.]. During this time, I [mention any relevant activities, such as volunteering, taking courses, or freelance work], which helped me to develop [mention relevant skills or experiences gained during this time].
Since returning to the workforce, I have [discuss any recent positions or relevant projects you have worked on], which reinforced my skills in [mention specific skills] and allowed me to keep up with industry trends. I am confident that my strong work ethic, commitment to continuous learning, and adaptability will make me a valuable asset to your team.
I am particularly drawn to [Company's Name] because [mention something specific about the company that appeals to you], and I believe my background in [mention related experience or expertise] aligns well with the goals of your organization.
I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss this position and my qualifications further. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to the success of [Company's Name].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Cover Letter With Employment Gap
Jane Doe
123 Main St.
Anytown, USA 12345
[email protected]
(123) 456-7890
February 10, 2025
John Smith
XYZ Corporation
456 Market St.
Big City, USA 67890
Dear Mr. Smith,
I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Manager position at XYZ Corporation as advertised on your careers page. With over eight years of experience in digital marketing and project management, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills to your innovative team.
You may notice a gap in my employment history from January 2020 to September 2021. During this period, I took time off to care for a family member battling illness. While this was a challenging time, I volunteered at a local nonprofit organization, where I managed their social media campaigns and helped to increase community engagement. This experience not only allowed me to hone my marketing skills but also taught me resilience and the ability to adapt quickly to new challenges.
Since that time, I have worked as a freelance digital marketing consultant, where I successfully guided multiple small businesses in enhancing their online presence and executing effective marketing strategies. These experiences have kept me abreast of industry trends and equipped me with the latest tools and techniques in digital marketing.
I am particularly drawn to XYZ Corporation because of your commitment to sustainability and innovative approaches to marketing. I believe my background in creating impactful marketing strategies aligns well with your mission, and I am eager to bring my expertise in this area to your team.
Thank you for considering my application. I would love the opportunity to discuss how my experience and skills align with the needs of your team. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe

Frequently Asked Questions
How do I explain an employment gap in my cover letter?
Be honest about the reason for the gap, such as caring for a family member or furthering education. Highlight any relevant activities you engaged in during that time.
Should I mention my employment gap in the opening paragraph?
No, it’s better to address it later in the letter, allowing you to first present your qualifications and enthusiasm for the position.
What if the gap was due to a layoff or termination?
Frame the situation positively by focusing on what you learned during your time off and how you have evolved as a professional.
Can I include volunteer work during my employment gap?
Yes! Mentioning any volunteer work or freelance projects can demonstrate your initiative, skills, and continued engagement in your field.
How long should my cover letter be?
Aim for a concise letter, typically one page long, focusing on key points that showcase your qualifications and address the employment gap.
Conclusion
A cover letter provides an excellent opportunity to address an employment gap and illustrate how it has contributed to your personal and professional growth. By using the provided template and sample, you can craft a compelling letter that makes you stand out to potential employers.
Comments
Emily R.: “This template really helped me structure my cover letter! Thanks for the guidance!”
John T.: “I was unsure about how to explain my time off, but the template made it so much easier to articulate my thoughts.”
Nina L.: “The sample letter gave me confidence to apply for jobs again after my employment gap. Thank you!”
Mark P.: “I appreciated the tips on discussing volunteer work. It truly made my cover letter shine!”