when to tell a potential employer

[skinnedknee]

Hello again,

So I'm about a month into my monitoring agreement with Michigan's HPRP and I have a couple of interviews lined up. Last week I had 4 interviews lined up however, 2 of them cancelled the interviews when I told them about my involvement with HPRP. So for the upcoming interviews, I decided that I'm going to wait until the interview to tell them. But a friend of mine, who is also in the program said to call them and tell them over the phone. I'm conflicted. On one hand, I'm not trying to hide anything but I fear if I tell the employer too soon, the may make a snap judgement before the interview(like two already have). But on the other hand, if I wait, the employer might think I'm trying to hide it.

So in your experience/opinion, what's the best way to go? When should I tell a potential employer about HPRP? I feel damned if I do and damned if I don't!

[Twoyearnurse]

There is no problem with telling them in the interview. It is not deceitful to let them get a first impression of you, your involvement in the program doesn't speak to the qualifications you have for the job. You wouldn't tell them over the phone if you had a physical disability that would require adaptations in the work place. Bring it up in the interview, make it short and sweet. I've learned that people are only uncomfortable with your sobriety of you are.

[HunnieBadger]

I agree with two year, don't allow them to close the door before they have met you and hear your story. Keep it factual and short, do not make it the focus of your interview. I brought my forms with me and explained it briefly, my manager said she understood and that we are all humans and make mistakes. She hired me that day and I'm sure is very happy with my performance as a nurse! My addiction does not define me, I define me :). Best of luck!

[greygirl81]

I had many interviews where I waited to tell during the interview, and they never turned out well. I finally just started being upfront about it on the phone. Then, I knew they were at least open to the ideas, and that's how I landed my job (2 actually one in home health and one at a nurising home) Good luck!

[10yearnurse]

Couldnt agree more with hunnie badger. I do the same things she did and since september have had 6 solid full time offers only to be derailed by HR. So, take your paperwork, shine at the interview, and as they wrap up by offering, tell them about it. Most managers Ive met would love to keep me but HR says no way jose. ugh. Still looking. Another interview Friday.

GOOD LUCK

[HunnieBadger]

HR sucks! Pretentious, Judgy people who have NO idea what it's like to work on the floor! Many of them likely have skeletons in their own closets. Keep trying it will happen!

[TXRN2]

@ wenman: best of luck with the interview!!! I've been wondering....:) praying for ya!!

[Umberlee]

I would really like to be able to take in an application in person and meet my potential supervisor, but the hospital I'd like to get some experience at only seems to take applications online. The first time I applied there and freely gave details on my application, I immediately got a rejection email. The next time I did not put in so much detail and I at least got a call back requesting more info. When I explained my situation over the phone the HR lady said she would put me as clear to hire but it would depend on my potential supervisor as to whether they would hire me while on a contract. It took ages but I finally got a rejection email then too. My contract is up in February and I'm hoping to go ahead and apply again if they have any relief or part-time positions open around that time. If not, at least after that point I can check out home health and such as well.

[Twoyearnurse]

My very first interview for nursing I put in an online application and the following day I went in to meet the DOC. It worked so well he interviewed me right there. He said how he truly disliked the impersonal aspect of online applications. He said it really showed my interest in the position. Couldn't hurt to try!

[Blessed_RN2011]

I faxed in a cover letter and resume- the cover letter included the status of my liscene and that I be happy to discuss more during interview. That way any potential employer knows what they are getting into before they ever call. No need to waste their time or my time with interviews that will go nowhere. Also helps with the emotional roller coster! Good luck!

[coneal8]

I am new to the HPRP process. I was wondering if anyone could email me about their experience. Specifically if you were allowed to work midnights. Do you think a lawyer is helpful?

[email protected]

Thank you