I just read a post where someone was offered lower pay because they'd been unemployed for two months. Why does having a gap in your resume seem to be a big deal in America, especially for entry-level roles? I have lots of gaps in mine, for a range of reasons (e.g. had savings and took a month or two off work, burnt out and needed a break) and have never been asked about these (in 20+ years of working). Why are resume gaps anyone else's business?
Bonus question: what's with prospective employers asking your previous salary?! Seems like it could be good way for employers to collude to keep wages down to me.
Edit: I am not from America.
Edit 2: what is considered a gap? 1 month? 6 months?