60% of executives take strategic breaks for personal growth or due to legal requirements like garden leave and non-compete clauses. But how should we address these gaps when they show up on a resume or online profile?
I recently contributed to a topic on LinkedIn, "How do you handle discrepancies or gaps in executive resumes or online profiles?" and my response sparked a lot of interest, so I decided to dig a little deeper. Why tackle this subject? It's a fascinating blend of strategy, reality, and a touch of behind-the-scenes drama. So, let’s unravel the mysteries and realities behind those enigmatic career pauses.
The Art of the Executive Pause
Imagine being at the helm of a ship navigating through turbulent waters. Now imagine doing that for years on end without a break. That's the life of a C-level executive. The relentless pace, the high stakes, and the constant pressure can be both exhilarating and exhausting. When these leaders step down from a role, it’s often with a substantial severance package, allowing them the financial freedom to take a step back and breathe. These breaks aren't about laziness or lack of ambition; they’re about recharging, reflecting, and plotting the next big move.
The Legal Landscape: Garden Leave, Notice Periods, and Non-Compete Clauses
One can't ignore the legalities that come into play. Executives are frequently bound by contractual obligations like garden leave, notice periods, and non-compete clauses. These terms might sound like jargon from a legal thriller, but they serve a purpose.
- Garden leave, for instance, is a period during which executives are still employed but are not required to work. It's a cooling-off phase, preventing them from jumping ship to a competitor with sensitive information.
- Non-compete clauses, on the other hand, can legally restrict them from joining a rival firm or starting a new venture for a specified period.
These legal stipulations aren't just red tape; they’re strategic pauses that allow executives to consider their next move carefully without the rush of immediate employment. It's a time for strategic planning, something that’s crucial at their level of leadership.
The Personal Dimension: Rest and Reflection
Beyond the legal and financial considerations, there's a deeply personal aspect to these gaps. Executives often use this time to focus on personal growth, family, and health - areas that may have been sidelined during their intense professional journeys. It's a period of rest and reflection, an opportunity to reconnect with themselves and their loved ones. This personal reset is as essential as any business strategy session.
Handling the Gaps: A Practical Approach
So, how do we handle these gaps when they appear on a resume or online profile? Here are a few tips:
- Be Transparent but Strategic: While honesty is crucial, it's also important to frame these gaps positively. Highlight the productive aspects of the break, such as professional development, strategic planning, or personal growth.
- Showcase Continued Learning: If the executive engaged in any learning or development activities during the gap, such as taking courses, earning certifications, or attending industry conferences, make sure to highlight these.
- Emphasise the Strategic Pause: Explain the gap as a strategic pause. This not only sounds impressive but also aligns with the reality of high-level career management.
- Highlight Contractual Obligations: Mention any garden leave or non-compete clauses if they apply. This adds a layer of understanding and legitimacy to the gap.
- Leverage References: Use endorsements and references to validate the reasons for the gap. Positive testimonials from previous employers can go a long way in reinforcing the narrative.
Gaps in executive resumes or online profiles are not the black holes they might initially seem. They are, in many cases, well-deserved breaks, strategic pauses, and periods mandated by legal obligations. By understanding and articulating these nuances, we can better appreciate the career journeys of top-level professionals and present them in a way that aligns with their reality.
Let's continue this conversation. Share your thoughts, experiences, and strategies for handling career gaps, and together, we can demystify this aspect of executive career management.
