Question:
Hello,
I am new to your forum, I read quite a bit last night and found some useful information.
Here is my situation, I completed my CDL Training last week from a State accredited school. Got my license last week. Was pretty fired up about the prospects of staring a new career.
That did not last long however, due to the fact the first two compnanies I applied to turned me down.
The problem is since 2001 I have had an awful time with life, work finances etc. The economy being upside down I could not find employment that would pay anything. I did numerous jobs, some as an independent contractor, some barter deals and some for cash. I took some survival jobs, Waffle house cook etc.
So when I apply I showed on the application as self employed for that time frame. The problem is I do not have w2's or 1099's to show. So they think I am some kind of terrorist who left the country.
The fact is I lived off my own money and now am basically broke. So my elation of passing the test is starting to fade.
BTW I am a 51 yr youngster looking for a fresh start.
Thanks in advance for any suggestions or ideas.

Answer:
Get 3 notarized letters from friends stating you were self employed from date - date. Keep it simple. No need for personal reference on them. All you want is the dates of self employment, a statement that you were self employed , your friends signature, your signature and a notary stamp. Without being notarized it is worthless. Most companies will accept it although some may not.

Answer:
Thanks for taking the time to respond.
Very good tip!

Answer:
Before I got into this...I had been self-employed, and even though I had the tax statements to prove it.... I still had to come up with the kind of letters that Stuffs mentioned. Also, because I had taken several months off with no employment, I went and got letters from clergy, an attorney, and my physician that stated that they knew me, and that I had been self-employed and then I took a long vacation. I also went to the Clerk of the Courts in my home county and got a form from them that showed I had no criminal record.
That satisfied the whole issue and I had no problem getting hired.
BOL!So I like what I do, you don't, too bad, get over it. Get on with your life, I am.

Answer:
Thank you for the response Skywalker.
I was under the impression that the employer would run a background check which would include a criminal background check.
Will take your advice though and get it from the clerk.
Have not been to a Doc in years. Have not had an attorney since my Divorce over 25 years ago.
I will turn over a few rocks and see what I can find.
Just need a break, I am not looking to get rich, I am reading to learn and to work.
thank you again for the response.

Answer:
In your case, as it was in mine...the letter/form from the Clerk will speed things along. Companies can pull your "public records".... but when it comes to the "criminal side"....the cost is higher....so if you can show them up front that you have no record.....it will make things easier.
Also, any "Professional" (legally licensed) will usually suffice. The more the merrier!!
Glad to be of help!So I like what I do, you don't, too bad, get over it. Get on with your life, I am.