Hello everyone!
Im new here. Im in a tough and unique situation and seeking advice. I used to be an RN. I made some horrible choices and lost my job and my license. Later that year I became disabled so I haven't worked in 3 years. I have since lost my purpose. I feel like Im wasting my skills and want to return to work within a different career. How could I put that job history on my resume without blacklisting myself? I want to be completely honest about my past. Thanks for reading.
Anonymous
05/01/22 at 4:08PM UTC
Have you considered career paths that will allow you to bring your lived-experience to your work? If the prior setback was related to addiction, for example, you could seek a position as a peer navigator, group facilitator, or program administrator for recovery or related behavioral health programs. That would support your goal of total transparency. If you are seeking a position in an entirely new field, there is likely no need to disclose the prior setbacks. In all events, credentialing and volunteering can help build up your resume after time off from the workforce. Regarding the hiatus, you can honestly say that you took the time to focus on your health and reexamine your career goals. In many cases, that is enough information, and you may be surprised by how many employers find that relatable.
Lesa Edwards, Career Coach & Master Resume Writer
THE career expert for high achievers
4.13k
12/08/21 at 9:03PM UTC
It won't be any different than any other job on your resume - you shouldn't be including the reason for leaving jobs on your resume. I would need to see your resume to give you more specific feedback.
Barb HansenStartup Product, Growth & Strategy
9.66k
12/07/21 at 8:26PM UTC
If you are looking to remain in healthcare but not return to nursing, you could investigate working at a health-focused startup. I know, I know, some startup have bad reputations but many are great places to work. I was a laboratory tech back in the day, and I moved over to the digital world years ago by working for a healthcare startup. You bring a lot of experience and knowledge that is invaluable. I'm happy to share my experience transitioning from healthcare to tech (without any tech experience), connect with me if you want to chat.
Healthcare worker
725
12/07/21 at 6:21PM UTC
Since I am a Nurse Practitioner and know the types of issues that cost a license I will answer a little more in depth than others have. Are you considering continuing in healthcare? If so that will be tricky and you will have to fully disclose all the circumstances surrounding your loss and license and the disability that came after. If you are working outside of healthcare, the person will likely not know how to do a license lookup and find out from the board what transpired,but will be able to contact your previous employer. Since there are very few things that can cost a nurse their license, you will need to be fairly honest, and avoid applying for any positions that would put you in an area with access to medications. It will be difficult but not impossible to get past what happened in a new work setting. Since you didn’t specify what areas you want to work in I can’t give more detailed approaches but there are some industries and employers that will hire people despite certain background matters. Good luck!
Anonymous
12/08/21 at 6:04PM UTC
I am in school obtaining my bachelors of science in healthcare management. I don't intend on returning to nursing. I am wanting to work remotely for an insurance company or some other healthcare focused company. I'm still undecided but am doing the research. Thank you for your help.
Anonymous
12/07/21 at 5:28PM UTC
Welcome! I used to be a nurse recruiter so I've seen situations similar to yours. What career/job are you looking to transition to and have you been working towards that goal either through education, volunteering or some other type of experience? If yes, I'd highlight those experiences on your resume and cover letter. I'd recommend that you consider bringing up your past work experience as an RN during the interview and be prepared to share what happened. If you haven't yet started working on gaining skills or experience in your newly chosen career path, you will probably want to start identifying how you can gain some experience through education or volunteering. I think it will be important for employers to see that you had a rough patch but have committed to learning from that experience and put effort and energy into establishing yourself in a new career. Best of luck to you!
Amber Orlando
21
12/13/21 at 10:41PM UTC
Thank you so much for your kindness.
Anonymous
12/07/21 at 5:18PM UTC
List all as any usual resume with job descriptions and dates and achievements. Practice short and precise sound bites explaining the bare minimum as to why you left you last position, the disability created lapse in employment and the new skills you've worked on during your time away from employ (new certifications, accreditations. extra training and any classes you've completed). Be short and to the point about your past. Being truthful and over sharing are two different things. Be prepared to focus on your new goals.
