How do I get a job when my past employment is very uninspiring?

Question

I am a recovering alcoholic that has been sober for over 7 years. My past is checkered to say the least. Since I have been sober I earned an associates degree and a B.A. in Chemistry. When I use my past I don't get any interviews, and when I doctor my past I get an interview but not the job. What can I do?

Answer 1

Well first congrats on your recovery!!! Keep it up..When we get into issues in our past, sometimes they shadow the future as in your case. I have two suggestions. Be honest and tell your interviewer your situation, maybe not in full detail, but then go to say how much you have improved yourself and in return you educated yourself and have a whole new insight of your future.

Or, if you really need your past to speak for your future, maybe you can contact someone and reintroduce yourself and show them how much you have improved in a general sense. Then explain your applying for positions and would love if you could give a fair recommendation from your past to your future. This person might say that you went through some hardships but currently you seem to be a changed person and have a new insight of your life and goals?

Hope this helps alittle bit..The key is to be honest but also show the new you!!

Answer 2

Good job on the recovery, i would second what alwayz has said..