Reentering the Working Class Blues

I have not worked in about a year and a half due to my weight issues and sleep apnia.  I have started looking for work again but i am just horrified due to the time off and my prior work history.  What do I tell an employer?  "Umm hi I am Dan and I havent worked in 2 years but i just had WLS.  I am not the same person you see in my application and resume so give me a chance!!"  I am just really overwhelmed with emotion on how to handle this situation.  Any advce will be greatly welcome. Love ya'll and have an awesome week.

Hey there! You will be fine. Just be honest with them. I worked in Human resources for a while and when looking at applicants, one of the issues was definitely a gap in employment. However, in an interview, you have the opportunity to explain the situation. The key is just to be you...be yourself...and when they ask about the gap in employment, just tell them. Employers LOVE honest people. Also, once you get an interview or two under your ever-shrinking belt, you'll be a pro and nothing will stop you! If you haven't been in that situation for a while, it can be overwhelming. Just take a deep breath, relax and say, "I got this..." then go in with all the confidence in the world and show them how amazing you are!!! You'll do fine! I'm just sure of it... Liz

By all means be honest.  But, have you done any volunteer work in the last couple of years?  Done anything at church?  Have you kept you skills up?  I don't know what field you are looking at re-entering.  If it requires technical skills call your local Technology Center for a brush up course.  They should help you with the job search. Wow!  Did youever think that you would be wanting to look for a job so soon?  What a huge accomplishment in a short period of time.  You should be very proud of yourself. I am a high school teacher.  I work with kids all the time trying to get established in the workplace.  PM me if you want to talk.  I am a pretty good sounding board.  However, I am pretty free with the "mom" advise! Denise

Dan - you are a warm, fun, articulate guy.  Just be yourself!  Someone will scoop you up and be glad that they did!  You will be an asset to any company.  Just be yourself and be confidant! Good luck! Kim

Dan, that is almost exactly what I said. I explained that I was out of work due to health issues and that I had had gastric bypass and I was now healthy and ready to do a great job. I got such great responses from people. You will be admired and respected not only for your honesty, but for your willingness to do what it takes to be healthy. I am actually great with apps and interviews (Not to sound snotty, but generally if I apply for it, I get it)...I would be happy to give you any help and advice I can. If you'd like to talk and get some ideas, let me know and I'll PM you my #.     Daph

Dan, since I am not in the work force nor have been in the public work force for several  year. I dont know that I can give advice but I do want to encourage you. Your a sweet guy and you are a charmer.. just be yourself and be honest. I will keep you in my prayers sherrie

Dan,  I was a stay at home mom for 11 years!  When I went back into the work force, I took a class at the local vo tech to gain computer skills...as I had totally missed that ship...lol and refresh in the field I had worked in prior to having kiddos.  I thought people might look at me as fat and lazy but I received a lot of compliments for my devotion to my children.  I laughed and admitted there were many days I wished I could have been at work at a job but I felt so blessed to be able to be home with the kids.  I also volunteered at my church and the girl's schools and employers like to hear that also.  Be honest.  I think Daph had excellent advice as everyone has.  I have learned-and it took me a good 40 years to learn this-that it is not a crime to believe in yourself and actually "sell" yourself in an interview.  It is not conceited to tell them the truth about your work ethic and skills. I agree with all the ladies here...you are a charming, caring, fun guy and I can't imagine anyone not seeing that when they meet you.  Henry Ford said, "If you think you can or you think you can't...you are right."  So, think you can!!!!  Good luck!!!  Diana

Dan, you're so kind and honest ... I'm sure you'll do great in any interview. I'll keep your situation in my prayers and especially pray that you aren't overcome with worry or self-doubt. Just be honest and share your belief in a strong and honest work ethic. Any employer will be lucky to get you!

I an an employer tell me not to forget the farm work. It shows you know how to work hard, and I know you and I have talked about cattle before. I agree with the others just tell them straight up in that gap what was going on and that you've resolved it. We're rooting for ya! In case you're interested, Edmond Schools need school bus drivers if you're interested. I know it's a ways from where you live, but they need good people. My husband just got hired for part time, but they need full timers, too, I think.

Hi Dan  Just wanted you to know I was thinking of you and wishing you good luck and sending a prayer your way! You might go to workforce oklahoma they will help you fill out stuff and also help find you a job. Again I wish you the best of luck. God Bless and have a great week. Karla