DEAR ABBY: I am a wife and mother of two boys. Last year I left my job of six years to start my own business. Unfortunately, my business has not generated the income my family and I need. I am now looking for work, along with thousands of other people.
My problem is, I have a criminal record that stems from two small but painful incidents when I was 18. My husband knows about my record, but no one else does.
When going on job interviews, I have been honest and up-front about my past, but it seems I'm put on the "ignore list" once the interviewer hears about my record. They can't see the years that have passed without so much as a traffic ticket; how I solved my problem through therapy; the stable environment my husband and I provide for our boys; nor the years of hard work I devoted to my previous job and current business.
How can I find someone who will hire me while my growing business takes off? Should I lie about my record? I know it's hard to trust a stranger, but I'm a hard worker, an honest and faithful employee -- and I am desperate. -- LOST IN TEXAS
DEAR LOST: You should not lie. However, it would be helpful if you can provide letters of recommendation from previous employers, your clergyperson, and respected people in your community who will vouch for your honesty and the success of your rehabilitation.