Question:
DUI and EMPLOYMENT, please help!?
2011-08-20 15:34:45 UTC
Hi, I'm looking for employment, I mostly apply to job adds on places like Craig's list because most of them only require you to send resume and normally by the time you fill out their application you are already in the office getting ready for an interview.

I have a DUI on record from last year, my BAC was 0.08 the legal limit, I had 2 glasses of wine with dinner, I don't usually drink but was celebrating my sister's birthday that day, I got pulled over and even though my BAC was at 0.08 and was certain I would pass, I did not, but anyway, getting back to my question.

I notice that if I fill out applications on line, I normally never get a call because of the DUI, but I have had a few interviews from jobs on Craig's list, I notice they don't take in mind the DUI as much once they see you in person as opposed to online where they will automatically judge you, but my question is basically this, I went ahead and applied on line to a retail job, I disclosed everything in detail about my DUI, and sent the application. Much to my surprise I actually got an email back about a week later, I couldn't believe my eyes, the email said to email back and to choose a date for an interview from the dates they gave me.

I'm ready for next weeks interview, I'm very excited, but my question is- Should I mention the DUI again during the interview or should I assume they saw it on the on-line application and not mention it? Do they always see the whole application from on-line applicants?

I know most of you will probably respond by saying that I should mention it verbally as a courtesy , but I believe that stating it on the application is sufficient.

Now, if by any chance they missed it, which I highly doubt, and do end up offering me the job. Can they legally retract the offer simply because they missed it or did not see the whole application on line or read the part where I disclosed it? could not reminding them about it during the interview give them the right to do that?

I don't mind reminding them about it at the interview, but it could also backfire by them maybe thinking twice and also they might think I sound a bit paranoid and might not consider me at all.

I know about the background check, but my question is just if they actually look at the whole app on line and should it be mentioned a second time at the interview assuming they already know about it.

some of the interviews I have had since the DUI have actually turned out as job offers, however they were offering only 10hrs. a week and I did not know the actual location of where I was going to work and had to travel across town, which ment I would be spending all my paycheck on gas, all those details I found out after after the job offer.

I know that they don't mind the DUI once they meet me in person, which is a good thing.
Seven answers:
Annie
2011-08-20 15:39:25 UTC
Don't talk yourself OUT of a job, talk yourself INTO a job. Don't focus on the negative, focus on the positive you can bring this company. You already disclosed the DUI, don't beat it into their heads.
Devorah
2016-06-11 04:11:06 UTC
1
Cindy
2011-08-23 02:11:01 UTC
Only address it if asked. if they ask do not say 2 glasses of wine blah blah....no one likes ex uses, I have found making excuses in the past only went against me. say this " I have learned a valuable life lesson I will carry with me forever, I Value my driving privilege and am thankful no one was hurt." Above all else my period of limited freedom gave me a chance to reflect on how important it is to always be mindful in all aspects of my life big or small." Or something close to that. pull a positive out of it. Employers like to hear how people have learned from and overcame obstacles. good luck to you.. A lot of people have had a D.W.I way more than you think. As long as it was a life lesson, sounds like it was for you, realize this stop being ashamed. Let this lesson make you stronger and put it in the past. You go girl! get that job add some confidence self belief and you will go far. Also always ask if a manager is available to see you for a few minutes after you fill out the application. If they are not in . take the app. w/ you or come back when they are there. I have always done this and many times was hired on the spot. Then you can say in person I feel it is ethical for me to tell you this......then the positive life lesson stuff. Keep it short and not a focal point, that can happen when someone is nervous. Just be mindful! XO Cin-
2016-05-14 19:14:06 UTC
It depends upon several things. If you drive for a living or have caused and accident that caused physical injury to someone, you may be let go for conduct unbecoming an employee of the XYZ Company. If you in police or fire or some other legal/quasi public position, you may be terminated. Unless it was in the newspapers, you have to ask yourself, how does your employer know.
mnwomen
2011-08-20 15:45:07 UTC
I would not bring it up at the interview. If they ask about it then answer truthfully. I am sure they have looked at your entire application. They are more concerned with criminal activity and convictions. Your dui would only matter for a driving job.
Thoth
2011-08-20 15:44:20 UTC
I would answer the specific question asked, i.e. "Have you ever been convicted of a felony?" or whatever it is honestly. Any employer can terminate your employment or rescind an offer if they later learn that you lied on the application.



But I'm a little confused; you weren't above the limit, so did you just fail the roadside sobriety test?
I like Cheese!
2011-08-20 15:50:20 UTC
I agree with the other answers.... donĀ“t mention it unless you are specifically asked about it, in which case answer openly and honestly, and move on.


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