A divorce brings with it many life changes. After years or decades of being married, you're now single. You probably live in a new home. You may find that your income level has changed significantly, and a job change is necessary. Or you may be re-entering the workforce after years of staying at home.
If you are searching for a new job, whether you are currently employed or unemployed, you should know your legal rights and be prepared to properly address any legal problems you may have had in the past with potential employers.
If you were fired from your last job or if you are asked about former criminal convictions, it is best to be honest and very briefly address the issue in the most positive light possible. Whether an employer may refuse to hire you because of a criminal background depends on various factors dictated by state law.
When interviewing for a job, potential employers are certainly permitted to ask questions that relate to your ability to perform the job. However, federal law prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, age, race, national origin or religion, and potential employers cannot ask private questions that don't have a direct bearing on your ability to perform the job.
Preparing for Your Job Interview
When preparing for a job interview, carefully consider whether any of the following issues apply to you, and how you will address them with a prospective employer.
- You are re-entering the workplace after a long absence. How will you describe your absence?
- Do you have a disability that requires an accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act? At what point will you disclose your disability?
- Are you prepared to take a drug screening test?
- Do you have any prior criminal convictions?
- If the prospective employer requires a credit and background check, will it uncover any potential problems?