Sick leave & job interviews

[Swanlake123]

Just a quick question regarding job interviews and references. Earlier this year I was off for around 8 weeks including my staggered return due to numerous illness which all stemmed from a very servere case of peritontis, I unfortunately also suffered blood poisoning etc so was poorly and off work for quite a long time. I am currently looking for a new job and wondered if my work was to ask how many absenses I'd had in the last year, if this would count as just one? As although I was off for a long time it was only a bout of sickness as I was off the whole time with no going back and getting signed off again. Obviously if I was to be questioned I wouldn't lie and would explain, but if they were to see on paper I have only worked 3/4 of the this year it doesn't look great! Thanks in advance

[PeppermintInfusion]

It would count as one instance but they usually ask for how long as well- one serious absence is better than multiple days here and there for vague self certified illnesses. Obviously you had a good reason for being off so I wouldn't worry- do you have any ongoing issues that might mean you'd need to take more time off?

[Optimist1]

Peppermint is right about one serious absence being much more acceptable than lots of short ones. Please don't be tempted to lie - I had someone working for me who decided to apply for the job of her dreams. I gave her a great reference, which is what she deserved. But ... the question one the reference form asked how many days she'd been off sick in the previous 12 months and I answered accurately (something like 23 days IIRC, mostly in 1s and 2s). She had a great interview and soon got a letter offering her the job subject to references being checked. Job offer was withdrawn because she had only admitted to about 10 days sick, and honesty was a priority for the new employers.

[Onesleeptillwembley]

You don't need to lie. It was one of those things, in fact telling the whole truth could go in your favour as they'll know it was a one off. I can't see any employer holding that against you.