In today's dynamic property sector, career paths aren't always linear. Whether you've taken time off to raise a family, dealt with health issues, or pursued personal development, gaps in your CV shouldn't hold you back from securing your ideal role in estate or lettings agency work.

Understanding the Concern

Hiring managers and recruitment specialists in the property sector understand that life happens. The key isn't to hide these gaps but to present them professionally and honestly. Your experience in estate agency or lettings work remains valuable, regardless of any breaks in employment.



Common Types of CV Gaps

Career Breaks

• Parental leave
• Caring responsibilities
• Health-related absences
• Further education or professional development
• Travel or relocation
• Redundancy periods

How to Address Gaps Effectively



1. Be Honest and Direct

Transparency is crucial in the property sector. If you took time off to care for family or pursue additional qualifications, say so. Employers appreciate honesty, especially in an industry built on trust and integrity.

2. Highlight Personal Growth

Did you use your time away from estate agency work to:

• Complete property-related courses?
• Develop new skills?
• Volunteer in community projects?
• Stay updated with property market trends?
  
  

These activities demonstrate initiative and commitment to professional development.

3. Use Positive Language

Instead of apologising for gaps, frame them as valuable experiences. For example, "During 2023, I focused on completing my NFOPP qualification while managing family responsibilities" sounds more professional than "I was unemployed due to family issues."

Format Your CV Strategically

Consider a Skills-Based Format

For longer gaps, consider structuring your CV around your key skills and achievements in property sales or lettings, rather than strictly chronologically. This helps highlight your capabilities while addressing any gaps naturally.

Use Years Instead of Months

If you have shorter gaps, using years rather than months in your employment history can create a cleaner timeline without being misleading:

• Senior Lettings Negotiator (2020-2022)
• Property Manager (2018-2020)

Recent Gap Due to Market Conditions?

The property sector has faced significant changes in recent years. If you experienced a gap due to market conditions or agency restructuring, you're not alone. Focus on:

• How you stayed current with market trends
• Any temporary or freelance work in property
• Professional development activities
• Networking within the industry

Turn Your Gap Into an Advantage



Remember, time away from the sector can provide fresh perspectives on the property market. Whether you've developed new skills, gained life experience, or simply had time to reflect on your career goals, these experiences can make you a more well-rounded property professional.

Expert Guidance Available

Navigating your return to estate or lettings agency work doesn't have to be challenging. At Windmill9 Consulting, we specialise in property recruitment and understand the unique dynamics of the UK property sector. Our experienced consultants can help you:

• Present your career history effectively
• Identify suitable opportunities
• Prepare for interviews
• Navigate salary negotiations

Take the Next Step in Your Property Career

Ready to move forward in your estate agency or lettings career? Let Windmill9 Consulting help you present your experience effectively and find your ideal role.

With our deep understanding of the property sector and extensive network of contacts, we're perfectly positioned to help you succeed.



Contact Windmill9 Consulting today:

• Call us for a confidential discussion about your career
• Email your CV for expert review
• Connect with our property recruitment specialists

👉 Contact Us Today!

• 📞 Call: 0116 232 5181
• 📧 Email: contact@windmill9.uk
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