I thought I would share with you all my basic form response when I get an email or call of interest about a job I've applied for. So far it has worked really well for me and I'm actually turning down offers whilst looking for the perfect fit.
" Hello,
Thanks for your interest in scheduling an interview. I can make myself available, but before we schedule, I want to inform you that I have a felony. I realize this a a deal breaker for some employers.
Many years ago I was a horrible drug addict and I did not make it out of that time in my life without legal repercussions. But, to be honest, I personally am OK with it because it was those repercussions that helped me get clean. And if a felony is the price for this life I have now, it was more than worth it.
As horrible, debasing, and humiliating as that time of my life was, it has honestly made me a better person. Kinder, more empathetic, and more humble.
There is no one in my life that isn't aware of my past and I'm blessed to have a number of professional contacts who know my skill set and would unhesitatingly recommend me.
But! I completely understand if this is a hard stop for you.
Regardless, thank you for your consideration and have a lovely day.
SineQuaNon"
Literally everyone I've sent this to has responded that they still want to go ahead with the interview.
Specializes in Intensive Care, Oncology Hematology.
On 5/6/2020 at 6:48 PM, SineQuaNon said:
Many years ago I was a horrible drug addict and I did not make it out of that time in my life without legal repercussions. But, to be honest, I personally am OK with it because it was those repercussions that helped me get clean. And if a felony is the price for this life I have now, it was more than worth it.
Oh my! You are so brave, I am so scared and ashamed to disclose my discipline to absolutely anyone. I am happy this works for you. Your post is so helpful.
Specializes in Intensive Care, Oncology Hematology.
On 5/6/2020 at 6:48 PM, SineQuaNon said:
I thought I would share with you all my basic form response when I get an email or call of interest about a job I've applied for. So far it has worked really well for me and I'm actually turning down offers whilst looking for the perfect fit.
I had applied to Davita last week while I wait for my hospital to make a decision on "what to do with me." I replied earlier tothis post on how brave you are. I received an interview request and went for it thanks to your post!
I wrote: "Thanks for your interest in scheduling an interview. I can make myself available, but before we schedule, I want to disclose that my RN license was recently placed on probation for medication administration discrepancies. An event that occurred 2 years ago.
I am not in a substance abuse program and do not have any drug related issues, this was a tragic mistake I made while working in Oncology with terminal patients. No direct harm occurred and only practice policies were breached.
Since the occurrence my nursing practice has been entirely above board and even advanced into critical care on recommendations of Nursing Leadership and I have been vigilant in redeeming myself. As difficult as this challenge has been for me it has made me a better nurse.
I'm blessed to have a number of professional contacts who know my skill set and would unhesitatingly recommend me.
Of course I completely understand if you cannot pursue the pre-employment processes with me. I respectfully thank you for your time and consideration."
Shockingly she responded with interest and we have a call scheduled. I have heard here that Dialysis is probration friendly. Thank you again for sharing.
I don't know that I would necessarily say horrible drug addict. you could say I had a problem with drugs and chose to get the help that I needed... they don't necessarily need the whole story or even the substance of choice.
I prefer to use the term “dx with Substance Use Disorder” (the actual medical and diagnostic term) or “ am in verifiable recovery from Substance Use Disorder”.
the more evidenced based, using evidenced based and up to date terminology allows us to take away the disgust given by others and the shame we put upon ourselves.
Specializes in Ambulatory Care, Community Health, HIV.
On 12/13/2021 at 8:23 AM, Cleona11 said:
I had applied to Davita last week while I wait for my hospital to make a decision on "what to do with me." I replied earlier tothis post on how brave you are. I received an interview request and went for it thanks to your post!
I wrote: "Thanks for your interest in scheduling an interview. I can make myself available, but before we schedule, I want to disclose that my RN license was recently placed on probation for medication administration discrepancies. An event that occurred 2 years ago.
I am not in a substance abuse program and do not have any drug related issues, this was a tragic mistake I made while working in Oncology with terminal patients. No direct harm occurred and only practice policies were breached.
Since the occurrence my nursing practice has been entirely above board and even advanced into critical care on recommendations of Nursing Leadership and I have been vigilant in redeeming myself. As difficult as this challenge has been for me it has made me a better nurse.
I'm blessed to have a number of professional contacts who know my skill set and would unhesitatingly recommend me.
Of course I completely understand if you cannot pursue the pre-employment processes with me. I respectfully thank you for your time and consideration."
Shockingly she responded with interest and we have a call scheduled. I have heard here that Dialysis is probration friendly. Thank you again for sharing.
learnfromthis, BSN, RN
19 Posts
Oh my! You are so brave, I am so scared and ashamed to disclose my discipline to absolutely anyone. I am happy this works for you. Your post is so helpful.