Gap years 'can improve a CV'

Gap years are a popular choice for those either about to start university or those coming to the end of their tenure there. They give the young people the chance to adventure and see the world before they get tied into education or work, and it now seems that in a competitive job market, employers are looking for those with gap year experience to join their organisations.

Youngsters may find they improve their chances of employment by purchasing travel insurance and heading abroad to take part in a volunteering scheme, it has been suggested.

According to gapyear.com, this kind of achievement can give people at the start of their careers an advantage over other potential recruits. In such a crowded job market it can be difficult to stand out from the many others who may apply for the same position with the same degree.

Employers are looking for more than just academic qualifications and volunteering overseas can demonstrate that a candidate has initiative, communication skills and decision-making abilities.

Founder of gapyear.com Tom Griffiths commented: "If you want to stand out from 10,000 bland CVs, this is the type of thing that looks interesting."

He also said youngsters should not be put off by the expense of such trips, claiming raising money for volunteer projects is possible for anyone who really wants to do it.

Gap years are the ideal thing for those who want to see the world before they take their first steps on the career ladder.

Purchasing travel insurance before setting off on a gap year could save people money if they were to fall ill or have an accident while away.