I need a job but I've been ill?

Question

I have not worked in a year because I had a lengthy chronic illness (nothing contagious). Now I really need to get back to work. What is the best way to address this with potential employers?

Answer 1

Girlfriend, I feel you on this one. After I completed my Master's degree, and post graduate studies, I gave birth, and I too havent worked in almost a year. I have just recently been applying for positions, and I decided to state that I needed a break to devote time to myself and my family, before making my next career move. I think it is a fair statement to make, and if you use something along these lines, you would essentially be telling the truth.

Answer 2

I'm kind of in the same situation. I was out of work for over a year and when I tried to get back to work, employers aren't exactly enthusiastic about hiring me.
My advice is:
1.) Don't lie! It's very easy to find out if a potential employee was working somewhere.
2.) Explain to your potential employer why there is a gap. You don't need to be specific, just saying "personal illness" is usually enough.

Also, during an interview you may be asked if you did anything during that time. Try to talk yourself up a bit, even if you have to make something seem a little better than what it is. Meaning, let's say one day you were messing around on the computer and you went to a website to learn Microsoft Word. You could say that you used the time to learn new business programs.

My last bit of advice...you may have to accept something that was less than what you left before the illness. I found a job but it's seasonal with no benefits and it's about $4000 a year less than what I made before. I'm hoping that after a few more months of this job, I'll be able to get something permanent with benefits. Employers are just nervous about hiring people with gaps in their work history. They could be thinking "Were they in prison?" or "Did they just not want to work?" Just do your best to make your resume look as good as possible and emphasize the positive aspects.

Oh, you might also want to check out some temp agencies like Manpower. They'll definitely get you a job. Good luck!

Answer 3

There are job sights in all states with help for your resume and some with training jobs .Start with unemployment offices , they will tell you what would be best for you .They also have contacts of employers that help people with certain situations .,Most employers feel a year off means no one else wanted you or your lazy or you were laid off and stayed on unemployment just not to work .Medical reasons ( depends ) they may see you as a risk. Age is a factor " yes there are laws against it but the employer knows the loop holes and wordings to prove it's not your age .Start with counselors at job sights .

Answer 4

Sometimes certain things are better left unsaid. Even though it's illegal not to give you a job based on your health in most industries, employers can get around the law. Just tell a potential employer that you took a year off for personal reasons. If they persist on an answer just tell them you needed time for yourself.

Answer 5

Try contacting the Americans with Disabilities organization http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/adahom1.htm
and the Equal Employment Opportunity offices for where you live.
http://www.eeoc.gov/
http://www.drc-gb.org/
http://www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts1995/1995050.htm
http://www.hreoc.gov.au/disability_rights/standards/www_3/www_3.html

Answer 6

During Interview- "I took time off to help care for a family member" - it isn't a lie- you are your own family.

Answer 7

you might try something novel like telling the truth!