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By Cynthia M. Piccolo (Career Questions)
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Dear Cindy: 

I have been an RN for 10 years, but I haven't worked in the last five years. The problem is that I was fired from the last position I had, and afterwards, I decided to stay home with my youngest child. I'm ready to go back to work, but I'm afraid no one will be willing to hire me. I also have the additional strike against me that I cannot take a position at night or a position with 12-hour shifts due to the fact that being a mother is my first priority. Is there any hope at all for me?

Sincerely,

Scared to Death

Dear Scared: 

Yes, there is hope!

First things first: the firing. Was it related to practice issues that had an impact on your license? If so, you'll have to deal with that with your licensing body before you do anything else.

If your firing didn't affect your license, things will be easier. But since your last job ended in a firing, and since you haven't worked in five years, I'd recommended that you do an upgrading or refresher course. Not only will it boost your confidence, but it also shows that since the firing that you've grown and improved.

If you still have a relationship with your former boss, let her/him know about your plans to reenter the workforce, and see if s/he will let you know what s/he plans to say when a reference comes calling. (Incidentally, an instructor from a refresher course is also someone who could provide you with a good current reference, if you find that your former boss won't give you one!) When it comes to discussing having been fired in an interview situation, give a balanced account of what happened, and whether you agree or not, say how you've worked to improve on those issues that were said to be the cause of your firing.

Otherwise, since you have time constraints, it's best only to apply for those jobs that will meet your needs, such as straight days or regular part-time. This is much easier than trying to negotiate shifts.

And finally, to minimize the fact that you've been out of work for awhile, use a combination or functional style of résumé. Make sure you include any continuing education that you've done to maintain your license while you've been at home with your family and include, if you take my advice, the refresher course.

Good luck!

See the follow-up to this query: Dear Cindy - Back in the Workforce (Again) .
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