Am I missing something here?
I have been underemployed/unemployed for the past 18 months(14 months underemployed and 4 months unemployed) I have had 5 interviews over the past 4 months but no offers. I have been working part time jobs and temp assignments just to make ends meet. I was with my last employer for 5 years and I held multiple positions there. I was terminated for falsifying records because I accidentally filled out my time sheet incorrectly but I din't lie about it, I told my manager who didn't see eye-to-eye with me that it was a simple mistake and I would go back in and fix it, which I did. However my manger didn't see it like that and reported me to HR and I ended up getting terminated. In my previous role with the same company I was an exempt employee which means we didn't have to fill out time sheets and when I started the new role I was still exempt but mid-way through the year they changed my team to non-exempt employees so we had to fill out time cards. I never received any written warnings regarding time sheets, this manger simply didn't want me on the team, despite getting great reviews for my work, so he/she took great measures to get me out. I starting to wonder if my termination is the reason that I am not landing any of these jobs that I have interviewed for recently, it just doesn't add up to me I have the qualifications and experience. I have advocated for myself and have several other sources also advocating for me because I am in deep need of gainful employment. I have no felonies or criminal records BUT it sure feels like I do based off how long it's taking me to gain back gainful employment. Is there something I am missing? So frustrating and confusing.
Your previous work history and the termination might have something to do with once you’ve made it to the background investigation stage of the hiring process. 2 things to keep in mind… 1, you’re not the only person competing for the job. Chances are that there’s 50 or more pre-qualified candidates selected for interviews. 2, recruiters are looking the best candidate so any cause for concern within your background will raise a red flag and automatically disqualify you from advancing to the next round.
Skills and years of experience are not enough. You have to revise your resume(s) to best account for gaps in employment and job hopping. Your interviews should show ability to follow directions, teamwork and reliability in addition to your skill sets compatibility to meet the responsibilities of the job. 4 interviews over the last 5 months is not bad so there’s obviously and interest in your abilities. Get more interviews and practice how to seal the deal.
In what State do you live? Because the laws vary and are different in a lot of states. You need to look up your specific States Labor laws and what your rights are as well. In Utah it States that an ex employer can tell another company if its not slander or falsified info they do have the right to tell the inquiring individual why you were terminated. But, the ex employer also has to put in a good word as well. Also if you have other work related history you may try to not put that employer on your application although you did work there for 5 years.