Referrals for people returning to work

A career break is common, and for many reasons: caring, health, study, travel or a move. A referral can help because a person inside the company can tell the recruiter more than a CV gap ever will. This is general advice, not advice about your personal situation.

Be clear and brief about the gap

• Put the dates on your CV and add one plain sentence about the break if you wish.
• You choose how much to share. Keep it factual and keep it short.
• Move quickly to what you can do now and what you want to do next.

Show recent, relevant work

• Courses, volunteering, freelance or personal projects count when you describe them honestly.
• Refresh the tools and skills named in the job description, and say what you have practised.
• Update your LinkedIn profile so it matches your CV.

Writing to a referrer

Lead with the role and one strength that fits. Mention the break in a line if it helps, then go back to your strengths. Referrers are looking for a clear reason to say yes, and a confident, specific note gives them one.