This is a guest post by Victoria on the impact of a DUI on job search. You can read the guidelines to guest posting at our write for us page.
Finding a new job takes time, energy, and hard work, but when you finally get your foot in the door and secure an interview, it feels as if you have passed some of the toughest hurdles. After all, your experience, skills, and references must have been notable, or you would not have advanced to the next step in the process.
While you may be feeling encouraged at this point, there could be an unexpected glitch waiting to sabotage your job hunt.
Most companies do a background check to ensure the honesty and integrity of any applicant before sealing the deal. Most people think this will not be problematic because they have no criminal activity in their past; however, some are unaware that the driving under the influence (DUI) conviction they received 7 years ago will have serious ramifications. This dark spot on their driving record will be seen by any future employers and should be carefully handled.
The following information may be helpful to those hunting for a job with a DUI infraction in the past:
- Disclose the DUI infraction at the first interview and make prospective employers aware of the penalties that you paid and the remorse that you feel over the incident. Be sure to include any behavioral education or counseling that you might have participated in because of the offense.
- Contact a lawyer who is highly knowledgeable about driving under the influence charges. It is possible that he or she can find a way to have the DUI incident wiped from the record.
- Do not waste time applying for jobs that have strong rules about hiring someone with a DUI. For example, applying for a job as a school bus driver would be futile with a DUI on record. This same principle would apply to taxi cab drivers and health care workers as well.
If you have gotten a DUI conviction in the past because you are an alcoholic, it will certainly be advisable to show that you have received treatment for this disease and have learned from your mistakes. If the incident was a one time lapse of judgment, explain the incident to the interviewer and make sure that they know you have paid the price and never plan to have such a thing happen again. Never make excuses for this crime because, to most employers, there is no excuse that makes a difference.
Although a DUI can affect many areas of your life, including your travel plans and social status, none may be more important than the effect it has on your job search. While handling this all by yourself may be cheaper, obtaining a DUI lawyer to offer counsel during this time may be the best money you could spend, and the return in the form of a good job will last for years.
About the Author:
Victoria James is a contributing writer at Katz & Phillips, P.A. To receive legal advice from an Orlando DUI Attorney or to find information about Florida DUI penalties please visit their website.