Can I get a Professional Job with a Criminal Record?

Hello,

I have been trying to get a job with an insurance company or large law firms and no one is calling me back. I assume it is because I was arrested in 2002 and plead out to probation. I am not a convicted felon, but that is still on my record. Also, I have an arrest for battery on my record, but the case got thrown out. Can you really help? I received an email from Allstate that they want to set up an interview with me next week. Will this mess me up once they look up my background?

Mattie

Can I get a Professional Job with a Criminal Record?

Hello Mattie,

Let's start at the beginning. You state that you plead to probation, which means that you were convicted. I don't know what your conviction was for, but if you were convicted of any type of theft, fraud or robbery, some jobs may not be available to you.

In case of any other arrests, employers are more concerned with convictions rather that arrests. That is why the question on applications typically begin with. "Have you been convicted of a crime..." I encourage all ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs to get a copy of their criminal records so that they can answer this question honestly and accurately. The best place to get this is from your probation officer. I'm sure he/she can get a copy for you.

When your interview comes, as I advise everyone with a criminal record, answer every question honestly, but never volunteer information. If the question does come up on the interview like this, "I'm glad you are asking this question, because I want you to feel comfortable hiring me....." Then briefly explain the circumstance surrounding the infraction. Spend more time talking about the steps you have taken to overcome that situation.

Don't assume that your legal issues are the reason you are getting few call backs. Continue to apply for every job you qualify for for. Don't assume that because you have a record, you won't be considered.

I would also try to find out if expungement in your state. Expungement essentially means that your criminal record would be hidden from public view. Once that is done, you may claim not to have a record when responding to the "Have you ever been convicted....." question. Expungement is a legal process that you should not try alone. You should contact your local legal aid office to see if your state offers the opportunity for expungement. You may also qualify for free legal services.

"Top Five Job Interview Mistakes Ex-offenders and Felons Make"