Need some advice guys n gals!

[JimmyDean]

I left my previous employment last March due to being diagnosed. I haven't returned b/c I wanted to change careers from sales to Human Resources which interests me more. I'm earning a Prof. Certificate in HR and halfway done. I have a huge gap from last march to now, and when I go into interviews...I'm not sure what to tell them.

1) I had an illness
2) I had cancer and had to undergo treatment
3) Just left my previous employment to focus on a new career

What would u do? Just curious, thanks!!

-James

[Don]

I would think that if you list on your resume that you were diagnosed,treated for ,and most importantly BEAT cancer that any employer would see you as a person with an incredible desire to succeed, able to overcome adversity, someone with dedication, and most importantly a person not willing to settle for second best... If you didn't have everyone of these qualities above then we wouldn't be having this conversation!!!!!!! Not to many people could list on their resume overcoming an obstacle in life as big as you have. For once you could actully take advantage of the fact that you HAD cancer!!!!!!! Best of luck James!!!! DON

[Scott]

There are some resources on this topic available from this page of the Lance Armstrong Foundation's livestrong.org site. I think you should be as open as you choose to be, although some people do experience employment discrimination by volunteering too much.

[amorgan74]

School

I know an employer should not count it against you for being out of work for any reason related to your heath but I can tell you based on my experience as a loan officer for a mortgage lender, school carries almost as much weight as employment as long as you go into the field that you have been in school for. April

[JimmyDean]

Thanks everyone. You all rock!! I had an interview wed, and one in 12 hours! im givin it my all. i've just been sayin i have an illness. It's illegal for them to ask you more I believe.

-James

[Scott]

Great news on the interviews, and best of luck finding the right job! Keep us posted, JimmyDean.

[jdunn]

Jimmy Dean,
You can say, I "HAD" and illness.
Good luck on your interviews!
jane

[Bagpipe]

JimmyDean - It is absolutely against the law for them to ask you anything about your personal health history. Also, if you are still interviewing and interested in an HR position, my offer is still open. Best of luck to you.