What would you put on an application for: Reason for Leaving (past job) if you left to serve jail time?

Question

I don't want to lie I'm just looking for a more discrete explanation

Answer 1

Personal reasons is the best answer. Be prepared to give a short explanation if they ask.

If you have been convicted of a felony, you are supposed to answer Yes if it is on the application, unless you were a Youthful Offender, or Juvenile Offender. Some applications will ask about misdemeanors, but this isn't always the case.

You may want to be totally honest, but unfortunately, many companies won't hire you. Larger companies will do a background check, but it also depends on the position you are seeking. Just because an application claims they will do one, doesn't mean it will always happen. They can be expensive.

Another option is working through an agency. I know two people who worked for about two years for Verizon as temps.  

Answer 2

Criminal background check are very common now, and companies that run one in the correct county will find every conviction in the last seven years.  So the challenge is to fill out the employment application accurately and explain your situation in the interview.  To put "personal reasons" as the reason for leaving the company, as others have suggested, is a good idea.  

How are you going to answer the question on the employment application about criminal convictions that is also standard?  If you don't tell the truth, the company can fire your at any point without liability.  The only way to get the conviction off your record is to have it expunged, if this is possible.  

In the interview, you should tell the truth if asked for more details, and explain why this won't be a problem if they hire you.  For example, show that the conviction is not relevant to the job you will do for them or the problem will not happen again.  The place to do this is in the interview, not on the job application or resume.

Answer 3

just say you relocated or moved away and that's the truth.

Answer 4

Put 'personal reason' on the application form. When you are called for an interview, a few days before you appear for an interview write a personal letter explain to them clearly, honestly and sincerely the reason you lost/left your last job. If possible deliver the letter yourself to the person who is going to interview you. Have a little chat with him regarding your letter. Again be honest and sincere. Please do not put the real reason why you left your last job on the application or they will not even consider calling you for an interview. You deserve a chance to explain yourself and to have a job.

Good luck

Answer 5

Tell them you were detained/incarcerated (sp?).  Honesty is the best policy!!

They will do a background check b4 or after hiring you so you might as well lay all the cards down now before they deny you the position.

Answer 6

unless it was a felony and they will find out about it, i would just put that you left for personal reasons. if they ask at the interview, which i doubt, i would explain that they were extremely personal reasons and that the situation has been taken care of.  

Answer 7

Most jobs require you to declare any kind of conviction, whatever it was so I'd just be honest as I dont think there is a discrete way.