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Handling a job search when you have done jail time
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Everyone has something in the closet to hide. But there are some who have real skeletons – the type of skeletons that can put the brakes on a job search permanently. So, what do you do if you have a criminal record? There are a lot of different crimes. Before you apply for a job, you will need to consider how the hiring company will perceive your criminal past. Naturally employers have cause for concern over hiring someone with a record. They have a legal responsibility to exercise due diligence throughout the hiring process.
Depending upon the type of crime, level of severity, and the position for which you are applying your job prospects might be limited. This situation will present some challenges, but that does not mean it is impossible to obtain new employment. There are ways to handle your ‘record’ and still obtain gainful employment. Sometimes people just make stupid mistakes; this does not mean you are going to be among the unemployed forever.
The following is some information and tips to help you get back on track. You are the arbiter of your own success (or lack thereof) so ultimately it is up to you to remain on the straight and narrow:
The Job Application: When it comes time to fill out the job application, you need to understand your rights. There are many states where you will not have to report an arrest unless you were convicted. There are also situations where you might not have to report minor drug offenses. The point is that your state’s regulations govern what you need to reveal on the application, so make sure you do your own due diligence. You will also notice that it will state on the job application that a conviction does not automatically mean that you will not be considered for employment. If you are in need of additional information it might be worthwhile to speak to an attorney so you understand the full picture before you begin the interview process.
Don't Lie: Make sure that you are honest when applying. During the interview process you will generate far better results by explaining the situation in an honest, clear, and forthright manner than trying to sidestep or cover up the situation. As I mentioned above, everyone has skeletons, and an honest answer with an explanation will generate a more positive response than a lie, that if (and when) uncovered will result in your not getting the job anyway. A person who has made a mistake (we all make them) is not immediately disqualified. Someone who is committed to getting on track and is motivated will be of interest to some employers. People are forgiving and willing to give a second chance, especially if they detect a genuine feeling that a person is ready, willing, and able to change.
Get Professional Assistance: There are organizations that focus on helping past offenders obtain gainful employment, and some have relationships with employers interested in giving ex-offenders a new start. They can also help with interview and résumé preparation as a person prepares to gain employment. Check with your state unemployment office or local vocational rehabilitation centers to learn about training programs and techniques to launch a productive search.
Start Slowly on Building Your Experience: You might find that you are offered positions that you don’t consider ideal. You will need to establish credibility in the workplace, so taking a position to rebuild trust is important. Over time you will be able to demonstrate through your résumé that you are a trustworthy and reliable professional. Each step you take will make finding new employment that much easier. Use your network of friends and family; those people can vouch for your personal character. People that already know you or have a connection to you will be more willing to give you an opportunity.
Opportunities: There are certain jobs that will hire people with a criminal record. Consider working in a convenience store or in a local fast food establishment. If you are good at sales, check out a car dealership. Car dealerships are known for giving people a chance. While these things might not be your first choice, they will give you the opportunity to build your résumé and show what you can do. Over time you will find that a criminal record will become less of an issue, especially in light of a history of strong performance.
You need to realize that it is going to take time, perseverance, and dedication to start over. There will be challenges and frustrations along the way. It is not going to be easy, but building a new life takes time. The jobs you want and are qualified for might not be the ones you will get – at least not immediately. You will have obstacles to overcome. Consider a longer-term approach to your overall career plan. You will need to crawl before you can walk. Over time your criminal record will be behind you; your résumé will be strong; and you will be able to move on with a happy, productive, and fulfilling life with a good job.
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Debra Wheatman, CPRW, CPCC is the founder and Chief Career Strategist of ResumesDoneWrite, a premier career services provider focused on developing highly personalized career roadmaps for senior leaders and executives across all verticals and industries.
Debra can be reached at -
DWheatman@ResumesDoneWrite.com
ResumesDoneWrite.Blogspot.com
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