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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by Elle2021 on November 22, 2003, at 2:03:31
Alright, here's the deal:
I have had probably 6-7 jobs this past year. I never got fired, but I quit each and every one of them for various reasons (probably having a lot to do with my illness). I am doing somewhat better now, where I think I could hold down a job for more than 3 months. Problem is that all interviewers ask the basic questions like how long did you work there, why did you leave, etc. What am I supposed to say? I was having a mental breakdown so I quit? No, I can't say that. I know the reason I have been turned down for the most recent jobs I applied for is because the employers thought I would quit (apparently past behaviour says a lot about a person's future behaviour :) ). So, what do I tell these people? How can I explain that I was ill then, but am better now, and that I am not planning a relapse in the near future? ANY advice is helpful.
Elle
Posted by fallsfall on November 22, 2003, at 8:18:02
In reply to Getting a job...Need advice, posted by Elle2021 on November 22, 2003, at 2:03:31
Tell them exactly that. Could your doctor write a note that says that you are more stable now than in the past year, and that he expects that you will be able to maintain a job for longer - and that he will help you do that?
They will appreciate your candor, and if you have skills that interest them they may be more inclined to give you the job.
Another suggestion is to apply for a job that is a little beneath you. This way you won't have to work so hard at the job and will have more energy to work on keeping the job. It also makes you more attractive to them because you are SO much more qualified than anyone else applying for the job. If they do give you a chance and you work out, they have a really good deal. (When I applied for my Library position ($8.50 hour) with Library experience and a Masters in Math, they didn't even publicize the position. I'm still really nervous about working 10 hours in a week. But my boss said the other day that if there were a week I couldn't work 10 hours it would be OK).
Try volunteering somewhere you would like to work (this doesn't work for Wal-Mart, or an insurance company, but it sure worked for me for the Library). This gives them a chance to know you and you a chance to know them. That's how I got my first library job - I was volunteering and told them that I was looking for a job (asked my "boss" to be a reference). She then decided it was time she hire someone else - and that was me)
Don't overload yourself!
I figure once I get used to 10 hours a week at the library, I'll volunteer somewhere else and try to keep building up to a real job.
Good luck
Posted by DaisyM on November 22, 2003, at 19:23:05
In reply to Re: Getting a job...Need advice » Elle2021, posted by fallsfall on November 22, 2003, at 8:18:02
I'm not sure I agree with complete honesty --it totally depends on your field. As the CEO I am always looking at a variety of issues, not the least of which is workman's comp and disability stuff. You can not be discriminated against because of an ongoing illness -- but there are a million reasons NOT to hire someone. In this day and age it is not uncommon for people to be moving around, a lot. You might say something like, "I needed to work so I took a number of positions knowing that they could be short term due to reorganizations. I am really hoping for something much more long term now."
If it is a human service field: "my life was really complicated for awhile but those issues have resolved and I am looking forward to prioritizing my career goals."
Another suggestion is to go to work for a temp agency - They place you, short and long term stuff, and you don't have to explain to the employer your history. If the employer likes you, they may offer you employment without all the "hoops." I entered my current field this way, working temp while finishing my Master's and then took a permanent job where I was placed.
I totally agree about taking a slightly lower level job -- it is a great way to show your stuff. Especially if you are cheerful and very willing to ask for extra work.
Just some thoughts. Don't be too hard on yourself. The job market is really really tough right now.
Posted by Elle2021 on November 22, 2003, at 19:46:50
In reply to Re: Getting a job...Need advice » Elle2021, posted by fallsfall on November 22, 2003, at 8:18:02
Thanks guys, you have some really good ideas. I'm still kinda afraid to tell an employer that I used to be really unstable. The scary part is, is that I'm afraid of relapsing and quitting again. It doesn't take much stress for me to be overwhelmed. I will talk to my pdoc and see what he thinks about me getting a job. I know he already thinks I'm lazy.
Elle
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