Lapses in employment are a common challenge for employees seeking to re-enter the job market, yet it is unclear how different types of employment lapses affect perceptions of applicants. Drawing from signaling theory and ideal worker norms, we examine how characterizations of employment lapses in resumes shape perceptions of applicant quality and commitment. Using a sample of 454 supervisors and hiring professionals, we tested the effects of different resume manipulation strategies (e.g., opt-out parenthood, volunteer experience) on perceptions of applicants and whether these perceptions varied by gender. Findings revealed that, on average, resumes with unaltered employment lapses were generally evaluated more favorably and that among manipulated resumes, those with career-related volunteer experiences mitigated negative signals most effectively. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
