Application Questions: Age/Stability/Reason for Leaving

Hi, all,

I need some opinions. I guess I'm trying to write the perfect application, but it's really important to me and I don't want to get myself eliminated before I even get an interview (I tend to do well when I interview, so I'm less concerned about that).

1. My last two jobs were PRN and ended due to lack of work; one lasted almost 2 years, the other < 6 months. Now I'm by nature NOT a job hopper, but realize that this might look like I am. So I was wondering if I should add a previous job to my work hx which was not in health care (secretarial) but lasted 7 years. The problem: This job would put my age at least at 40 since it started in the 80's. I may be wrong, but it seems that an employer who is looking for an experienced nurse would prefer someone in her 30's - old enough to have experience (job/life), but young enough... well, you know age discrimination is alive and well. However, this job shows that I'm not a job hopper. So what is more important: not getting screened out based on age, or not getting screened out based on job hopping In other words: Would you include this 7-year secretarial job? (This position is with a previous employer, so HR knows my age, but I don't think they can disclose it to hiring managers in advance.)

2. My last job was basically "not a good fit". However, this has a clear negative connotation. I just don't know what else to put for "reason for leaving". Is "will explain in interview" a good choice, or does it sound just as bad as "not a good fit"? Any other suggestions?

Thanks so much your input and advice!

DeLana
"Will explain in interview" is better than "not a good fit", but still carries a negative connotation. However, if that is the only way to get your message across, you should consider it. I do firmly believe, though, that by putting qualifiers on your application, you are running a risk of getting your application canned without any outside help. I suspect this might have happened to me at one time. I would suggest putting down the most benign information possible and then take it from there.

As far as #2 goes, you said that you left both jobs b/c of lack of work. That, in and of itself, should be a perfectly acceptable reason for leaving. I wouldn't agonize too much about that.Personally, I would include the 7-year job. I like that stability aspect - this coming from someone a little younger who has not worked anywhere more than 3 years... ;-) If you are really hesitant about listing it, don't. It might be a moot point, though, if the application asks for the past five employers, or something like that. You may have to include it anyway. I guess, ultimately, I would just suggest that you not sweat it. Follow up your applications with a note, phone call, or visit thanking them for their time and consideration, so that those making the decision have a positive and professional impression of you. Good luck!!

Whats wrong with leaving to "explore another opportunity"? and then explain it as positively as you can in the interview.

"not a good fit" sounds bad..and you make the employee think twice about hiring you because they might think that you don't know what you want.

Quote from caliotter3"Will explain in interview" is better than "not a good fit", but still carries a negative connotation. However, if that is the only way to get your message across, you should consider it. I do firmly believe, though, that by putting qualifiers on your application, you are running a risk of getting your application canned without any outside help. I suspect this might have happened to me at one time. I would suggest putting down the most benign information possible and then take it from there.