Many individuals who have been out of work for an extended period of time have concerns over the employment gaps on their resumes. However, these jobseekers may be happy to learn that employers are becoming more understanding when it comes to some candidates’ inability to find work, according to the results of a recent CareerBuilder survey.

The career website’s survey collected responses from more than 3,000 employers across industries and found that following the recession, 85 percent of these individuals are more understanding when it comes to employment gaps. In addition, 94 percent of respondents said they would not think less of a job applicant who took a position at a lower level than their previous role.

"What is most important to employers is that workers show they have stayed active in sharpening their skills," said Rosemary Haefner, CareerBuilder’s vice president of human resources.

Employers who participated in the survey also provided a few ways that jobseekers can increase their marketability. For instance, 79 percent suggested they take a contract assignment and 61 percent recommended they sign up for a class.

While individuals are out of work, they may also want to consider taking a career test. Based on the results of this assessment, jobseekers may find that there are better positions for them that they have yet to consider.