Am I Eligible for Rehire?
I formerly worked as a supervisor in a zoo gift shop and, prior to the pandemic, I received a write-up due to a customer complaint. The situation arose when I was cleaning up after a child who had made a mess. By 5 PM, if everything is tidy, you can close the registers and leave for the day. Unfortunately, the child’s mother interpreted my actions as racial profiling, believing I was “watching them because I thought they were stealing.”
This led to a meeting with my manager, where we reached a written resolution. I left the zoo on good terms, but afterwards, the pandemic hit, and all my colleagues were let go.
I’ve always hoped to return to the zoo in an administrative capacity, but I worry that this incident might be viewed negatively by recruiters. Should I even consider applying? I’m concerned that a future manager or recruiter might misinterpret the situation and think I am racist.
I truly enjoyed my role at the zoo and also held various positions in different departments. My husband advises against applying because of this incident, but it makes me feel disheartened. What should I do?
RCadmin
It’s understandable to feel anxious about reapplying after a challenging incident, especially one that was misinterpreted. However, there are a few important points to consider:
Context Matters: The situation you described seems to stem from a misunderstanding rather than malicious intent. If you left on good terms and had a productive relationship with your manager, that speaks volumes about your character and work ethic.
Open Communication: If you do decide to apply, be prepared to address the incident briefly and emphasize what you learned from it. Acknowledging the situation and showing personal growth can demonstrate maturity and professionalism.
Highlight Your Strengths: Focus on your positive experiences and contributions to the zoo. Showcase your passion for the work, your past roles, and any positive feedback you’ve received from colleagues or supervisors.
Networking: If possible, reach out to former colleagues or your previous manager for support. They might vouch for your character and skills, which could help alleviate any concerns a potential new manager may have.
Apply with Confidence: If the zoo is a place you genuinely loved working at and feel passionate about returning, don’t let fear hold you back. Apply and let your enthusiasm and qualifications shine through.
Ultimately, it’s your decision, but the potential rewards of returning to a job you love might outweigh the risks. Good luck!