If you get arrested for drinking and driving, you may worry about how this offense will affect your life. Getting convicted for a DWI can carry serious consequences for your finances, reputation and your career.
For example, according to the North Carolina Department of Public Safety, a Level V DWI carries a fine of up to $200 and a minimum jail sentence of 24 hours. If you are trying to get a job with a DWI on your record, the following strategies can help you navigate the interview process.
Rely on honesty
Depending on the situation, a potential employer may ask you to disclose your criminal record and any prior DWI arrests in your past. Do not lie about your history or avoid answering the question. Answer the interviewer’s question about your criminal history directly without too much detail.
Frame the situation as a mistake
If a potential employer inquires further into your criminal history, frame the situation as a mistake that you learned from. Emphasize that the DWI is in your past and redirect the conversation to your personal accomplishments.
Wait to disclose this information
You may feel nervous about talking about your DWI in an interview and want to get it over with. However, do not talk about your DWI with the interviewer unless he or she asks about it.
It can be intimidating to go into a job interview with a DWI on your record. But do not let what happened in the past prevent you from finding a new job and moving forward in your professional career.