Will this hurt my chances of getting hired?

[KaraMedic]

A couple of EMS agencies in my area are hiring so I've applied (I want to get out of the hospital and back on a box). I am also getting married in less than three months.

First, at what point in the interview/hiring process should I let them know about my upcoming wedding?

Second, since I will inform them of my upcoming wedding, will it affect my chances of getting hired since I have to take off for a couple of weeks during the first three months? (Rescheduling the wedding is not an option.)

Thanks for any insight you may have.

[S8ER95Z]

Why don't you just hold out until after the wedding??

[KaraMedic]

Why don't you just hold out until after the wedding??

1. I am miserable at my job right now (and have been for over a year, but have tried to hold off on quitting until after the wedding)

2. the agencies are hiring now (one is hiring 6 new medics for a new station) and I don't know when they will hire again (and don't want to wait another 6 months - 1 year to get a new job

[S8ER95Z]

I see.. well you can alwasy interview and address the issues/concerns with whomever is hiring. I have had employees allow me to start later than than they wanted so I had time to finish up with my old job and I have had employers who would make the exception to allow you off a few weeks after starting for special events.

Good luck

[BCLepore]

Kara,
First of all getting hired is usually a pretty long process. Depending on the job for which you are applying the following processes must be completed:
Written exam
Physical agility
Oral interview
Chief’s Interview
Medical exam
Background exam
Psychological exam

Secondly, just because you apply doesn’t mean you will be offered the job. If nothing else the exam process will be very good experience.

Lastly, if you are offered the job you can defer the appointment to a later time. There is a good chance that the department is going to establish an eligibility list. They will go to the list to fill future vacancies.

And no, I would not muddy the waters during the testing process by mentioning the fact that you will be out of commission for the next 3 months.

Congratulations on getting married. It’s the best thing I ever did.
Paul Lepore
Battalion Chief
www.aspiringfirefighters.com