Career break cover letter template

by Michael Cheary

There are many reasons why you might need to take time away from your career… 

Whether it’s for family, travel, health, or further education, stepping back can be a necessary and rewarding experience.

But when it’s time to re-enter the workforce, getting your career back on track can seem like a challenge. We’ve already covered how to write the perfect CV after a career break, but you should never underestimate your cover letter. After all, it’s often the first impression a recruiter gets of you, and it’s your best chance to explain your career gap in your own words.

If you know the basics of how to write a cover letter but want more tailored advice, you’re in the right place. Here’s how to write a cover letter after a career break, complete with a free downloadable template.

Free career break cover letter template

Download our free career break cover letter template to get started. Just remember to tailor it to your own experience and the specific job you’re applying for.

Why you need a career break cover letter

A recruiter will definitely notice a gap in your CV, and they’ll have questions. 

A career break cover letter is your chance to answer them proactively. It shows you’re aware of the gap and, more importantly, that you’re ready and motivated to return to work.

Common reasons for a career break include:

• Starting a family or other childcare responsibilities
• Caring for a sick family member
• Personal illness or recovery
• Travelling 
• Further education or gaining new qualifications
• Redundancy
• Volunteering

Whatever your reason, your cover letter is the perfect place to briefly explain it and frame it positively.

What is a cover letter?

How to structure your career break cover letter

Here’s a step-by-step guide to structuring your cover letter to make the best impression.

Start with your contact details

At the top of the page, include your name, address, phone number, and email address. You should also add the date. This makes it easy for the hiring manager to know who you are and how to contact you.

Open the letter professionally

Always play it safe with the opening. The best way to start is with a brief explanation of the position you’re applying for and where you saw the vacancy.

Keep it short and to the point.

Example:

I wish to apply for the role of Executive PA, currently being advertised on Reed.co.uk. Please find my CV enclosed for your consideration.

Showcase your suitability for the job

Now it’s time to sell yourself. In the second paragraph, focus on your past achievements and relevant qualifications. Don’t mention your career gap just yet – lead with your strengths to show that you have the skills and experience needed for the role.

Use quantifiable examples where possible. For instance, ‘Increased revenue by 15%’ is much more powerful than just saying you ‘Increased revenue’.

Example:

As you can see from my attached CV, I have over four years’ experience as a PA, as well as experience in office management. In my previous role as an Executive PA, I worked closely with the managing director, providing administrative support and representing her in any meetings she could not attend. My role also included full diary management, working with a budget of £5,000, and organising training events for upwards of 50 members of staff.

Explain your career break

This is your opportunity to briefly explain the reason for your career break. You don’t need to go into excessive detail. The key is to be honest and confident.

More importantly, you need to explain why you feel this is the right role for you now. Recruiters might worry that you’re not ready to return to work, so addressing this concern directly will be crucial for your application’s success.

Example for a career break due to family reasons:

In early 2018, I took some time out from my career to be with my family. Now that my children are in school full-time, I am ready and determined to resume my career and take on a new challenge.

Demonstrate what you can do for the company

Use this section to show how you’ve kept your skills sharp during your time off. Mention any volunteering, work experience, courses, or events you’ve attended. Even independent study, like reading industry books or teaching yourself a new skill, is worth including.

This shows you’re proactive and can hit the ground running.

Example:

During my professional break, I have done my best to refresh my skills and keep up-to-date with the latest industry developments. For example, I’ve recently been working as a voluntary Administrator at a local charity, which has really helped me re-acquaint myself with the sector.

I have also completed a great amount of independent study, in particular completing my Executive PA Diploma, allowing me to expand my knowledge of the subject beyond my previous work experience.

Reiterate your interest

Here’s where you bring it all together. Reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and explain why you’d be a great fit for the company specifically. A little research into the company’s market position or recent successes will go a long way here.

Example:

I am confident that I can bring this level of expertise with me to your organisation and help [Company Name] build upon their reputation as a leader in the UK market. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can start immediately.

Close the letter professionally

Always thank the employer for their time and consideration.

Sign off your cover letter with ‘Yours sincerely’ if you know the name of the hiring manager, or ‘Yours faithfully’ if you don’t. Then, type your full name.

Example:

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to meeting with you to discuss my application further.

Yours sincerely,
[Your name]

Cover letter examples and samples

Tips for writing a career break cover letter

Want your cover letter to make a real impact? Here are some helpful tips to get you started:

• Be upfront and honest: Address your career break head-on. No need for cryptic clues – let them know when and why you took your break, and what motivated your return.
• Focus on your strengths: Don’t make it all about the gap. Highlight the skills, experience, and successes you gained before, during, and even because of your break.
• Show what you’ve learned: If you upskilled, did any volunteering, learned a language, or developed soft skills like resilience or adaptability – mention it. Not all learning happens behind an office desk.
• Align with the job description: Read the job advert thoroughly, and use your cover letter to show how your skills fit what they’re looking for right now.
• Be positive and proactive: Employers want to see your enthusiasm. Share why you’re excited about returning to work and what you can bring to their team.
• Keep it concise: A novel isn’t needed. Stick to the highlights and make sure everything you say is relevant to the job.

How to: Overcome common cover letter problems

How to explain a gap in your CV

Final thoughts

Remember, taking time out from your career is nothing to be ashamed of. 

Many employers are understanding when it comes to gaps in employment history. The most important thing is to be honest, focus on the positives, and show that you’re motivated and ready to get back to work. Your career gap doesn’t have to be a hindrance.

Looking for more inspiration or something specific to your situation? Check out our other cover letter templates:

• School leaver cover letter template
• Free cover letter template
• Retail Assistant cover letter template
• Graduate cover letter template
• Part-time cover letter template
• Retail cover letter template
• Career change cover letter template

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