Question for Hiring Managers; Inspired by Looking for a Job

[fantasymagic]

I've worked as an administrative assistant / secretary / legal secretary for @ 30 years. I worked at my last job for 15 years before we relocated to Florida from Wisconsin in June 2005. When we moved, my dad moved in with us. Unfortunately, he has rapidly increasing dementia and I haven't been able to work because he needs to be supervised constantly. We are going to place him in a home at the end of April. I thought I would wait a couple of weeks to see how it goes, then start looking for an administrative type job. I don't think I should jump in until I know that he's settled. I know employers want you to account for time where you didn't work. How would you look at my explanation of having to care for my father? Would the following explanation be okay? "I had to take care of my father who had dementia until it got to the point that he needed full-time supervison." Would you have any concerns? Any advice? Thanks in advance.

 

[RUDisney]

That would not be a deal breaker for me. #1, you moved to a new area, so you'd have had to find work anyway. #2, the timing just so happened that you were able to care for your father as long as you were able.

To me, you did the mature and kind thing.

One thing I'd say is that now that he's safe and secure in his new environment, and there are no other relatives who could possibly need your help, it's time for you to reenter the workforce.

Go into your interview with a sense of accomplishment that you were able to act on this kindness to your father without ever having to leave a position or take time away from an employer. Basically, play up that your father had impeccible timing with his needs.

My DGM had the same great timing with my Mom. Mom was displaced from her long term employer and was going to look for another job when my DGM found out that she had terminal cancer. My Mom was able to use her time away from an office to care for my DGM. It was as if God was watching out for both of them at that time... making Mom available for DGM and allowing DGM to have care from her only DD.

Best of luck finding your new dream job!

 

[fantasymagic]

Thank you, RUDisney, for the kind words and advice.

 

[salmoneous]

Your explanation is fine - nothing an employer would have a problem with. The one thing the employer wants to hear and you need to emphasize is that your father does have full-time care and that your work won't be hampered by your needing to take care of him now.

 

[Kitka]

As an office manager of a law firm, I would not be put off by that at all - just be honest. The biggest problem around here re" hiring of legal secretaries is the job hopping. 15 years at your last place of employment would be a big positive and your responsibilities at home wouldn't be a factor at all.

 

[ducklite]

I agree with the others, your dad's health coupled with a relocation is a perfectly acceptable answer, but you do need to make sure they understand that he's now in a place where he gets f/t care and his needs won't create a problem with your attendance. Good luck!

Anne

 

[fantasymagic]

Thanks so much everyone. I appreciate your kind thoughts.

 

[Caradana]

You have a fabulous track record ... we'd definitely be inclined to interview you ... the commute to New Jersey might be a little much for you though!