Getting back into workforce

[Healed_IHS]

Now that I am clean, I am getting more serious about where I am going career wise. The problem that I am running into is that my work history has been spotty at best, with frequent periods of unemployment.

Has anyone else run into this issue? How do you reply when employers ask what you've been doing during that time. I want to be honest, but don't believe "well, I was passed out behind a dumpster" would really thrill them.

 

[LoG]

In God's time, the job will be supplied.

 

[Healed_IHS]

True enough, but still what is the correct response to the question of what I've been doing in the meantime?

 

[LoG]

True enough, but still what is the correct response to the question of what I've been doing in the meantime?

The truth is usually a good start. Look for the positive aspects of the history. ie, accumulating life experiences of how not to live. An in-depth study of human nature while living in poverty. God will give you the words when the time and job is right or arrange it so that it doesn't come up in the first place.

 

[Healed_IHS]

Good point. I have applied for work with charities that assist the homeless and addicted. As part of my cover letter, I am using my experiences "on the street" and subsequent recovery as a selling point instead of a negative. Guess I can attempt that with other places. There is still the stigma that needs to be gotten over.

 

[wmc1982]

I'm about to graduate and get my B.A., but I am worried because before I got help for my alcohol problem, I got 2 dwi's in the same year (2006).

So I can't even drive for 2-4 years. So I get a little stressed how I will get a job with that recent record, and then, how will I even get there with no car.

 

[Healed_IHS]

I hear you. I am in the process of getting my license back now after several years without one, and let me tell you- taking the bus in Phoenix in the middle of the summer is absolutely no fun.

I've found that while it is a drawback to have that on your record, as long as the charges are non-violent and not felonies, some employers will work with you. Good ones too. For instance, I was working for a major online university prior to my last relapse and subsequent rehab (that the insurance from that job paid for).

 

[UnitynLove]

"What is impossible with man is possible with God"

 

[Autumnleaf]

Honesty, if they ask.

 

[Dralan]

Im kind of in the same boat. I am in early recovery, I havent worked in about 6 months, plus my record is kind of spotty at best. Ive been putting in alot of applications but havent had much luck finding a good job. Im tryin to get back on my feet and do the right thing and its kind of discouraging sometimes. I pray I will find employment soon; I know as long as I stay sober and rely ofnGod good things will come

 

[Nobility]

If someone was to ask about the work history, i think your best bet would be to just say that you were an alcoholic and it affected your work habits but you are now recovered and intend to stay this way for good.