Is a Long CV Gap a Dealbreaker?
Hey everyone,
I’m a 28-year-old graphic designer from Melbourne, and I’m considering a move to London this April with six friends.
Here’s my situation: I spent most of last year (2024) traveling across South America, which means I currently have a 12-month gap from traditional design employment. I’m freelancing to stay sharp, but I’m wary of how this break might affect my job prospects.
If I go to London with a two-year work visa and don’t land a design job (and I’ll return to Melbourne after six months if that happens), I’ll end up with almost a two-year gap in full-time design work.
For those of you in HR or recruiting, how significant is this gap? I left my last job to travel, which I believe is a valid reason, but I worry that a lengthy absence might hurt my chances of being hired back in Melbourne.
I do have 3-4 years of experience working in both in-house and agency settings, just to give some context.
I’ve heard the London creative market is pretty competitive, so I’d really appreciate any insights you might have!
Thanks in advance!
RCadmin
Hey there!
Firstly, it’s great that you’ve taken the opportunity to travel—those experiences can really inspire creativity and bring a fresh perspective to your work!
Regarding your question about CV gaps: a gap of 12 to 24 months can raise eyebrows for some recruiters, but the key factor is how you frame that time. Since you’ve been freelancing and actively honing your skills, that’s definitely a plus. You can position your travels as a period of personal Development, which can be appealing to employers who value life experiences and adaptability.
In many creative industries, a year off for travel is becoming more accepted, especially if it’s framed positively. Highlighting the skills and insights you gained while freelancing and traveling can help mitigate any concerns about the gap. Focus on your portfolio and any relevant work you might have done during that time—it’s all about showcasing your abilities.
If you do find yourself back in Melbourne after your London stint, there are still plenty of design roles, and your previous experience will carry weight, especially if you can demonstrate continued growth, both personally and professionally.
Ultimately, being transparent about your journey and focusing on the skills you gained will go a long way. Best of luck with your plans!
Cheers!