I have great educational and early career credentials: Harvard, Stanford MBA, Presidential appointee under Reagan and Bush1. Now that Jeb Bush, my mentor, is temporarily retired from politics, I am having a very hard time finding a job in South Florida, where I live to help my 80-year old mom. Any advice on that?

Further, in 2004, I had a dispute with a hotel manager and tried to retrieve my new computer, but was arrested for trespass with warning. I went into a pre-trial diversion program and did community service. The arrest shows up, but I presume this was "nolo contendere." Then, in 2005, I had to declare chapter 13 bankruptcy. I'm not sure how to disclose these at what point in the interview process.

Note: I cannot have this arrest expunged. Also, this is Florida. Thank you.

ballengerb1

You are not obligated to disclose your bankruptcy in an interview and your arrest must only be disclosed if that question is asked. You do not have to volunteer the information unless asked.

excon

Hello Patrick:

I don't know what kind of muckity muck applications YOU MBA’s fill out. But, REGULAR applications don't ask about misdemeanor convictions (I'm not even sure you were convicted), and they don't ask about bankruptcy.

No, you cannot have an arrest expunged. However, an arrest that didn’t result in a conviction, ought not be held against you. Plus, I'm not sure that it WILL show up on many background checks. They are NOT all the same.

Depending on the position you’re applying for, you may or may not have to divulge your personal financial tragedy. Of course, if you're applying for chief financial officer, you might. But, ordinarily I wouldn't think you’d have to. If you do, I suggest that it should be done down the road after interest has been garnered in your candidacy.

excon