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Getting a Job after Bankruptcy: How to Explain Your Bankruptcy to Your Employer

Now that you’ve taken responsibility for your debt by filing for Missouri or Illinois bankruptcy, it is time to find a job (or keep the one you have) to make sure that you don’t find yourself in that situation again. Bankruptcy is designed to give you a fresh start after spending months or even years in debt—but it is your responsibility to make that fresh start all it can be.

The first rule to follow when job hunting after Missouri or Illinois bankruptcy is this: don’t lie. Many employers these days are doing credit checks before they hire new employees. As you know, a bankruptcy will be on your credit report. While it may be better than having a foreclosure or repossession on your report, it is important that you are truthful about your financial history. Now, does that mean you need to go into your interview wearing a big “I filed bankruptcy!” t-shirt? No. But, it does mean that, if you are asked, tell the truth.

The second rule to follow is to think about your explanation. Most employers aren’t just going to throw away your application as soon as they know that you have filed Missouri or Illinois bankruptcy (if they even ask), but an explanation would certainly smooth it over. Hard times fall on everybody, especially in this economy. Your employer should understand, appreciate your honesty, and evaluate you for what is truly important: the skills you need for the job.

The third, and perhaps most important, rule is to feel confident in your decision. You got protection from foreclosure, credit card debt help, and relief from harassing creditors and you did so for the future of you and your family. There isn’t anything to be ashamed of. So, go into an interview with the confidence that you made the right decision

As any St. Louis Missouri or Fairview Heights Illinois bankruptcy attorney will tell you, the focus of your interview for your new job will not be on your bankruptcy. If it even gets brought up, go into the conversation armed with the knowledge that you made the right decision for you and your family. You are getting a job to continue to be responsible for yourself and your family. Any potential employer should recognize this confidence and certainly be able to focus the interview on the position and not on your past.

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