Career Break Success: What HR Managers Actually Want You to Know
Career breaks are on the minds of 75% of the British workforce, according to recent data. If you’ve ever considered stepping away from your professional life temporarily, you’re certainly not alone.
A career break is an agreed period of time off from employment, typically lasting between one month and two years. While six months to two years is the most common duration, the ideal timeframe often depends on individual circumstances. In fact, nearly 62% of employees have already taken a career break at some point in their professional journey, as revealed by a LinkedIn survey of 23,000 workers. Additionally, about 90,000 professionals are estimated to take a career break every year.
Whether you’re contemplating a break for family responsibilities, personal development, or simply to recover from burnout, understanding how HR managers view these gaps can make all the difference when you’re ready to return. In this guide, we’ll explore what career breaks really mean, the most common reasons people take them, and most importantly, what hiring managers actually want to see from candidates with employment gaps.
What is a career break and why it matters
“”Your career is like a garden. It can hold an assortment of life’s energy that yields a bounty for you. You do not need to grow just one thing in your garden. You do not need to do just one thing in your career.”” — Jennifer Ritchie Payette, Career coach and author
Taking time off from your professional life might seem daunting, but understanding what constitutes a career break can help demystify this increasingly common practice.
Definition and common durations
A career break represents a deliberate period away from employment where you temporarily step away from your professional responsibilities. Unlike regular vacation time, this pause typically extends beyond a few weeks, allowing you to pursue personal or professional development goals.
Most career breaks last between one month and two years, with six months to two years being the most common duration. Some professionals opt for mini breaks of less than one month to test the waters before committing to longer periods. Notably, shorter career breaks tend to be more popular with individuals over 45 years of age.
It’s important to understand that a career break isn’t simply unemployment – it’s an intentional pause with purpose. During this time, people typically engage in activities like:
- Recovering from burnout
- Traveling or exploring new cultures
- Volunteering
- Studying or pursuing additional training
- Starting a business
- Caring for family members
- Recovering from illness
Career break vs sabbatical
Though often used interchangeably, career breaks and sabbatical leaves differ significantly. The primary distinction lies in your employment status. During a sabbatical, you remain employed with your company with the intention of returning to your role afterward. Conversely, a career break typically involves resigning from your position entirely.
Key differences include:
Employment status: With sabbaticals, you’re still technically employed; with career breaks, you’ve resigned.
Duration: Sabbaticals are usually shorter and have defined end dates, whereas career breaks can extend for years.
Return arrangements: Sabbaticals include an agreement to return to your position; career breaks offer no such guarantee.
Pay considerations: Both are typically unpaid, though some employers might offer reduced compensation during sabbaticals.
Purpose: Sabbaticals often focus on professional development relevant to your current role, while career breaks frequently involve broader life changes or direction shifts.
Who typically takes career breaks?
Career breaks have grown significantly in popularity, with approximately 90,000 professionals estimated to take one annually. Despite this trend, there remains a notable gender imbalance – in Flanders, for example, 9% of female employees took advantage of career break systems compared to only 3% of male workers.
Nevertheless, the demographic is shifting. Men taking career breaks are increasingly common, though they still represent a smaller percentage. Interestingly, about half of men who interrupt their careers full-time do so to explore alternative employment options, while those taking part-time leave primarily seek better work-life balance.
Despite growing acceptance, career gaps still present challenges when returning to work. A 2019 study found that applicants with resume gaps were 45% less likely to receive interview invitations than those without. However, employers tend to be more accommodating when:
- The break follows a long period of continuous employment
- The break was used for additional training or education (resulting in an 8.5% higher callback rate)
- The candidate is transparent about their reason for taking time off
Furthermore, the perspective on career breaks has evolved from viewing them as negative to recognizing their potential benefits for personal and professional growth.
Top reasons people take career breaks
The decision to step away from your career isn’t made lightly. Understanding common motivations behind career breaks can help you determine if taking time off might be right for you.
Mental health and burnout recovery
In today’s demanding work environment, mental health has become a primary reason many professionals pause their careers. A 2023 McKinsey Health Institute study spanning 30 countries revealed that India has the highest employee burnout rate, with 59% of respondents reporting burnout symptoms, compared to the global average of 22%.
Taking time away from work specifically for mental health recovery has become increasingly recognized as a legitimate need. More than 40% of workers experience burnout, with women more likely to suffer than their male counterparts. As one professional described it, “Taking a career break can reduce stress, improve creativity, and provide a fresh perspective on life and career goals”.
For many, the decision comes after prolonged stress has led to physical symptoms. Professionals report headaches, tension, and even complete nervous system shutdown as precursors to their breaks. First thing to remember, a well-planned career break allows individuals to establish healthier routines that can lead to better long-term headspace and productivity.
Family responsibilities and caregiving
Caregiving responsibilities represent one of the most common reasons people take career breaks. According to one survey, an overwhelming 57% of respondents cited their role as caregivers as their primary reason for stepping away from work.
Family-related career breaks typically involve:
- Caring for young children or newborns
- Supporting elderly parents
- Assisting family members with health issues
This trend disproportionately affects women. In one study, women’s unemployment rate among postgraduates was 34% compared to just 6.6% among men. Importantly, this disparity is expected to worsen as the elderly population is projected to rise to 23% by 2036.
Travel and life experiences
The desire to explore the world represents another significant motivation for career breaks. Many professionals view extended travel not merely as a vacation but as an investment in personal development. “Taking a career break to travel can result in having a number of new skills and experiences in your pocket,” notes one traveler.
Benefits of travel-focused career breaks include improved communication skills, enhanced confidence, and exposure to diverse cultures. Subsequently, these experiences can translate to professional advantages – particularly for those who immerse themselves in local cultures or learn new languages.
Furthermore, research has shown that travel helps people navigate emotions better, increases empathy, and boosts creative thinking. Many find that even a simple change of scenery is enough to elevate mood and provide renewed perspective.
Upskilling or education
Many professionals use their time away from work to enhance existing skills or develop new ones. This approach is particularly strategic as it addresses one of employers’ main concerns about career gaps – skill atrophy or falling behind industry trends.
Upskilling during a break might involve pursuing formal education, completing certifications, or engaging in self-directed learning. One professional currently on notice period shared, “I’m considering taking a short break to focus on upgrading my skills in full-stack development… I believe this approach will not only expand my skill set but also make me a more competitive candidate”.
Starting a business or passion project
Launching a venture or pursuing a creative endeavor represents another common motivation for stepping away from traditional employment. One professional who left a stable job explained, “I had a creative project that I needed to do. I was also itching to make a job change, but I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do”.
The autonomy of working on personal projects offers unique satisfaction. “Being selfish feels pretty darn good… I didn’t realize how much I was craving a project that was only my responsibility,” shared the same professional. Additionally, some individuals discover that pursuing passion projects provides stress relief and enhances overall mental well-being.
Regardless of your reason for considering a career break, remember that the experience often delivers benefits beyond its initial purpose. As one returner noted, “The fantastic thing about taking a break to do a creative project is that even once the actual work is complete, you continue to reap the benefits”.
What HR managers really think about career breaks
“”Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore.”” — Andre Gide, Nobel Prize-winning French author
The landscape of how employers view employment gaps has shifted dramatically in recent years. Once seen as red flags, career breaks are increasingly being recognized for the unique value they can bring to the workplace.
Changing perceptions in the workplace
Historically, HR departments viewed career breaks with skepticism, often interpreting them as a lack of commitment or potential skill gaps. Until recently, these perceptions cast doubts on candidates’ reliability and readiness for senior positions.
Fortunately, a significant shift is underway. Modern workplaces are adopting more human-centric policies, acknowledging that life isn’t linear and that breaks may be necessary for maintaining long-term employee engagement. Forward-focused leaders recognize that unbroken career advancement represents outdated norms that rarely reflect top talent’s actual journeys today.
In industries like IT, marketing, and creative sectors, there’s greater openness to post-career-break candidates, with emphasis placed on skills rather than continuous work history. Even in traditionally conservative fields, the post-COVID era has sparked more flexible, case-specific evaluations of returners.
What hiring managers look for in returners
When evaluating candidates with career breaks, hiring managers primarily focus on:
- Purpose and growth: Clear explanation of how you used your time productively
- Current industry knowledge: Awareness of current business challenges and changing landscapes
- Skills currency: Evidence you’ve stayed updated in your field
- Commitment signals: Indicators you’re ready for full workplace re-immersion without distraction
Beyond these, employers value the fresh perspectives and resilience career breakers often bring. Many organizations now recognize that experiences beyond traditional work can enrich professional perspectives and foster creativity.
How to frame your break as a strength
Instead of apologizing for your career break, present it as a strategic decision. Be transparent about your time away while highlighting the growth it facilitated. Studies show over 50% of employers pass on qualified candidates due to perceived out-of-touch skills, making it essential to showcase updated abilities.
Preparing career break stories tailored for interviews allows for framing breaks favorably rather than reactively. Focus on transferable skills developed during your break, like project management from travel experiences or people skills from caregiving roles.
Essentially, successful returners approach breaks not as detours but as meaningful, strategic stretches of their professional journey.
How to plan a successful career break
Planning a successful career break requires careful thought and strategic preparation. Unlike spontaneous decisions, a well-structured break can maximize benefits and minimize potential drawbacks. Let’s explore how to set yourself up for success.
Set clear goals for your time off
Initially, take time to reflect deeply on what you want to achieve during your career break. Whether it’s upskilling, travel, starting a business, or family responsibilities, defining clear objectives gives your break purpose and direction. Spend time brainstorming ideas that spark your interest and align with your long-term career aspirations.
Create a detailed yet flexible schedule outlining activities and their expected duration. This approach helps organize your plans and determine necessary preparations. Once you’ve generated multiple ideas, prioritize them based on importance and feasibility. Remember that even without work commitments, your time remains valuable—structuring your days helps eliminate time-wasting and streamlines obligations.
Create a financial plan
A solid financial foundation is crucial for any career break. Begin by calculating how long you can realistically afford to be without income. Consider your current salary, expected duration of your break, and budget for bills, emergencies, and other expenses.
Meanwhile, create a pre-break budget that accounts for all income sources and categorizes your expenses. Differentiate between fixed costs (rent/mortgage, utilities) and discretionary spending (dining out, entertainment). Many professionals recommend:
- Setting up a designated “career break fund” separate from your emergency savings
- Including health insurance costs in your calculations
- Saving more than your budgeted amount to provide flexibility
Stay connected with your industry
Simultaneously maintaining professional connections during your break prevents feeling “out of the loop” when you return. According to research, leveraging social media as a platform to share industry insights can establish your presence as a thought leader, enhancing your professional visibility.
Furthermore, keeping up with industry news through websites, trade magazines, and relevant blogs helps you stay informed about developments in your field. Consider attending trade shows, conferences, and networking events whenever possible. Many professionals find that scheduled meetings with key contacts and regular check-ins with former colleagues provide valuable support and information.
Document your journey and achievements
Throughout your break, maintain a detailed record of experiences, reflections, and lessons learned. This documentation serves as both a personal record and a valuable resource when you return to your career.
Given these points, focus on recording both tangible achievements and soft skills developed during your time away. These might include project management skills from travel experiences, analytical abilities from personal projects, or communication improvements from volunteer work. This documentation will prove invaluable when updating your resume and discussing your career break in future interviews.
Returning to work after a break: what works best
Returning to the workforce after time away requires strategic preparation and confidence. A LinkedIn survey revealed that 62% of employees have taken career breaks in their professional careers, showing how common this experience truly is.
Update your resume and LinkedIn
Frame your career break as a valuable episode of personal and professional growth. On your resume, list your break as if it were a job – using terms like “personal sabbatical” or “family leave”. LinkedIn now offers a specific “Career Break” feature in the Experience section where you can add context about your time away. This transparency prevents employers from making negative assumptions about gaps in your employment history.
Be honest and confident in interviews
Approach interviews with confidence, ready to discuss how your unique experiences equipped you with diverse skills. Prepare a brief explanation following this template: “I [reason for break]. During that time, [what you did]. Returning to work was always my plan, and I’m ready to do that now”. Remember to keep explanations concise and steer conversations back to your qualifications.
Highlight transferable skills
Stop thinking of work as the only place where valuable skills develop. Caregiving demonstrates emotional intelligence and crisis management; travel builds cultural intelligence and problem-solving; recovery from burnout shows self-awareness. Tailor your CV by mirroring the language from job descriptions to reflect these transferable skills.
Consider returnship programs
Many companies now offer returnship programs – paid, structured opportunities lasting 12-16 weeks designed for professionals returning after extended breaks. These programs provide mentorship, skill refreshment, and potential pathways to permanent positions. Goldman Sachs pioneered the first returnship program and continues to offer opportunities for professionals with gaps of two or more years.
Leverage your network
After a break, re-engaging with your professional network becomes critical. Start by reconnecting with former colleagues who know your work ethic. Consequently, spend 10-15 minutes daily engaging on LinkedIn to remain visible in your industry. Remember that networking isn’t just about finding jobs—it’s about building authentic relationships that reflect your renewed professional identity.
Conclusion
Career breaks have clearly evolved from being perceived as career setbacks to strategic pauses that can enhance both personal well-being and professional growth. Throughout this guide, we’ve seen how common these breaks have become, with nearly 62% of professionals having taken time away from their careers at some point. Additionally, the reasons driving these breaks—from mental health preservation to family responsibilities, travel experiences, or skill development—all contribute to a more well-rounded professional upon return.
The shifting attitudes among HR managers represent perhaps the most encouraging development. Whereas employment gaps once raised red flags, many forward-thinking companies now recognize the unique perspectives and renewed energy that returners bring to their organizations. Nevertheless, proper planning remains crucial for a successful break. Setting clear objectives, creating a solid financial foundation, and maintaining industry connections will significantly smooth your eventual transition back to work.
When the time comes to reenter the workforce, remember that confidence matters as much as preparation. Your career break story deserves to be told honestly and proudly. The experiences gained during your time away often develop invaluable transferable skills that make you a stronger candidate than before.
Career breaks, therefore, should not be viewed as detours but as meaningful chapters in your professional journey. They provide opportunities for reflection, growth, and renewal that continuous employment simply cannot offer. Whether you’re contemplating a break, currently enjoying one, or preparing to return, embrace this time as an investment in your long-term career satisfaction and success.
Your career path need not follow a traditional, uninterrupted trajectory to be fulfilling. Sometimes, the most rewarding professional journeys include thoughtful pauses that allow for personal growth and perspective—making you not just a better employee, but a more complete person.
FAQs
Q1. How long does a typical career break last?
Most career breaks last between one month and two years, with six months to two years being the most common duration. The ideal timeframe often depends on individual circumstances and goals.
Q2. What are the main reasons people take career breaks?
The top reasons for taking career breaks include mental health and burnout recovery, family responsibilities and caregiving, travel and life experiences, upskilling or education, and starting a business or passion project.
Q3. How do HR managers view career breaks nowadays?
HR managers are increasingly recognizing the value of career breaks. Many now view them as opportunities for personal growth and skill development, rather than as red flags. They look for candidates who can articulate how they used their time productively and maintained industry knowledge.
Q4. How can I plan a successful career break?
To plan a successful career break, set clear goals for your time off, create a detailed financial plan, stay connected with your industry through networking and continuous learning, and document your journey and achievements throughout the break.
Q5. What’s the best way to explain a career break when returning to work?
When returning to work, be honest and confident about your career break. Frame it as a period of growth and learning, highlight any transferable skills you gained, and prepare a concise explanation of your break that focuses on how it has made you a stronger candidate. Consider using LinkedIn’s “Career Break” feature to provide context about your time away