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Showing posts with label Jobs for felons. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Jobs for felons. Show all posts

Thursday, February 15, 2024

Things Felons Should Never Say on an Interview

Things Felons Should Never Say on an Interview

Job interviews are critical opportunities for individuals with criminal records to showcase their skills, experience, and potential. However, navigating the interview process as a felon can be challenging, as the need to address a criminal background arises. Effective communication becomes paramount in order to present oneself in the best possible light while minimizing the impact of past mistakes. This article aims to provide valuable insights and strategies for felons on what not to say during an interview, helping them navigate this crucial stage with confidence and increase their chances of securing employment.


1. Introduction: Understanding the Importance of Interview Communication for Felons



1.1 The significance of effective communication in job interviews


Job interviews can be nerve-wracking for anyone, but for felons, they come with additional challenges. Effective communication during an interview is crucial for felons as it allows them to showcase their skills, experience, and personal growth since their conviction. Being able to express themselves clearly and confidently can help felons overcome potential biases and misconceptions held by employers.

1.2 Unique challenges faced by felons in the interview process


Felons face unique challenges during the interview process due to their criminal history. Employers may have concerns about their trustworthiness, reliability, and potential risks to the workplace. Navigating these challenges requires felons to carefully consider how they present themselves and communicate their qualifications without drawing attention to their criminal background. It is essential to strategize and focus on highlighting their skills, experience, and personal growth to increase their chances of securing employment.

2. Avoiding Mention of Criminal History: Key Strategies and Tips



2.1 Understanding the legality of disclosure regarding criminal history


Before stepping into an interview, it is crucial for felons to understand the legal regulations surrounding disclosure of their criminal history. While laws vary in different jurisdictions, in many cases, felons are not obligated to disclose their past convictions unless specifically asked. It is important to research and familiarize oneself with the applicable laws to ensure compliance.

2.2 Crafting a professional resume and cover letter without mentioning criminal background


When applying for jobs, felons should focus on crafting a professional resume and cover letter that highlight their skills, qualifications, and relevant work experience. It is crucial to avoid mentioning any criminal background in these documents, as they should solely emphasize the candidate's abilities and potential contributions to the organization. Tailoring these materials to showcase transferable skills and achievements can help felons stand out as qualified candidates without drawing attention to their past mistakes.

3. Highlighting Transferable Skills and Relevant Experience



3.1 Identifying transferable skills from past experiences


Felons can leverage their past experiences to identify transferable skills that are valuable in various job roles. These skills could include effective communication, problem-solving, teamwork, leadership, time management, and adaptability. By recognizing and emphasizing these transferable skills during an interview, felons can demonstrate their ability to contribute to the success of an organization, regardless of their criminal background.

3.2 Demonstrating relevant job-related accomplishments and achievements


Highlighting past job-related accomplishments and achievements is a powerful way for felons to showcase their capabilities and prove their value to potential employers. Whether it's exceeding sales targets, implementing process improvements, or receiving recognition for outstanding customer service, emphasizing these achievements demonstrates competence and a strong work ethic. By focusing on their track record of success, felons can redirect the interviewer's attention towards their qualifications rather than their criminal history.

4. Emphasizing Personal Growth and Rehabilitation



4.1 Focusing on personal growth and positive changes achieved since the conviction


An essential aspect for felons during an interview is to emphasize personal growth and highlight the positive changes they have made since their conviction. This can include pursuing education, volunteering, participating in therapy or counseling, or engaging in other activities that demonstrate a commitment to personal betterment. By expressing remorse, taking responsibility, and focusing on the progress made, felons can show their dedication to rehabilitation and convince employers of their potential for positive contributions.

4.2 Highlighting participation in rehabilitation programs and ongoing efforts for self-improvement


Participation in rehabilitation programs and ongoing efforts for self-improvement is a strong indicator of an individual's commitment to change. Felons should use the interview as an opportunity to discuss any rehabilitation programs they have completed or are currently engaged in. This demonstrates their proactive approach to addressing past mistakes and investing in personal development. By showcasing their dedication to self-improvement, felons can instill confidence in employers regarding their potential for successful reintegration into the workforce.

5. Promoting Honesty and Transparency without Oversharing


When it comes to discussing your criminal history in a job interview, finding the right balance between honesty and oversharing is crucial. While being transparent about your past is important, you don't want to provide unnecessary details that may overshadow your qualifications or make the interviewer uncomfortable. It's essential to strike a balance that highlights your growth and rehabilitation without dwelling excessively on the past.

5.1 Striking the right balance between honesty and oversharing


To strike the right balance, focus on the lessons you've learned and how you've changed since your conviction. Emphasize your skills, accomplishments, and the steps you've taken to become a better person. Remember, your goal is to showcase your potential as an employee, not to dwell on your mistakes. Stay positive, genuine, and avoid going into exhaustive details about the circumstances of your conviction.

5.2 Practicing effective communication techniques to address the issue of criminal history


Effective communication is essential when addressing your criminal history during an interview. Practice delivering your story in a concise and confident manner. Be prepared to talk about the steps you've taken to rehabilitate yourself, such as completing relevant courses, volunteering, or seeking counseling. By highlighting your commitment to personal growth, you can demonstrate that you are a responsible and motivated individual.


Things Felons Should Never Say on an Interview



6. Addressing Questions about Criminal Background with Confidence


While it's important to be prepared for potential questions about your criminal background, it's equally crucial to respond with confidence and composure. By anticipating these questions and practicing your answers, you can ensure you're ready to address them in a way that showcases your suitability for the job.

6.1 Preparing for potential questions related to criminal history


Research common interview questions related to criminal history and prepare thoughtful responses in advance. Anticipate questions about the nature of your offense, the rehabilitation process, or how it has influenced your career goals. By having well-thought-out answers, you can demonstrate your ability to take responsibility for your actions and discuss your personal growth.

6.2 Articulating a confident and concise response to such questions


When answering questions about your criminal background, keep your responses concise, confident, and focused on your qualifications and suitability for the position. Avoid rambling or becoming defensive. Instead, emphasize the positive changes you've made and how you've learned from your past experiences. Remember, the interviewer wants to see how you've grown and how you can contribute to the company.

7. Navigating Tricky Questions: Handling Employment Gaps and Background Checks


As a felon, you may face additional challenges when it comes to addressing employment gaps and background checks. However, with the right approach, you can navigate these hurdles and present yourself as a valuable candidate.

7.1 Addressing employment gaps in a positive and constructive manner


If you have gaps in your employment history due to incarceration or other reasons related to your conviction, focus on the activities you pursued during that time. Discuss any certifications, volunteer work, or educational programs you completed to enhance your skills or knowledge. By highlighting your proactive approach during these gaps, you can demonstrate your commitment to personal and professional development.

7.2 Dealing with background checks and potential obstacles


Be prepared for the possibility of background checks and understand that some employers have specific guidelines regarding hiring individuals with criminal records. However, not all companies have blanket policies, and they may consider each candidate on a case-by-case basis. If asked about background checks, provide accurate information and assure the interviewer that you have learned from your past mistakes and are committed to a positive future.

8. Conclusion: Maximizing Interview Success for Felons


Despite the challenges felons may face during the interview process, there are strategies and tips that can help maximize your chances of success.

8.1 Recap of key strategies and tips for successful interviews as a felon


Remember to focus on your qualifications, skills, and personal growth since your conviction. Highlight relevant certifications, volunteer work, or educational programs you have completed. Be honest, yet avoid oversharing or dwelling excessively on your past. Practice delivering your story in a confident and concise manner, focusing on your potential as an employee.

8.2 Encouragement and motivation to overcome challenges and achieve career aspirations


Finally, it's important to stay motivated and resilient throughout your job search. You may encounter rejections or face additional obstacles, but don't let these setbacks deter you. Surround yourself with supportive individuals, seek guidance from career counselors or organizations specializing in helping felons find employment, and keep pursuing your career aspirations. Remember, everyone deserves a second chance, and with determination and perseverance, you can build a successful future.


8. Conclusion: Maximizing Interview Success for Felons


In conclusion, the interview process can be daunting for individuals with criminal records, but with the right approach to communication, felons can still make a strong impression on potential employers. By avoiding certain topics and focusing on transferable skills, personal growth, and rehabilitation, felons can present themselves as valuable assets to companies. Honesty and transparency are important, but it is equally crucial to strike a balance and not overshare unnecessary details. By following the strategies outlined in this article, felons can maximize their interview success and pave the way for a brighter future in their careers.


FAQ


1. Should felons disclose their criminal history during a job interview?


While honesty is important, it is generally recommended for felons to avoid disclosing their criminal history during a job interview unless directly asked. It is crucial to research and understand the laws and regulations regarding disclosure in your specific location. The focus should be on highlighting transferable skills, relevant experience, and personal growth.


2. How can felons address questions about employment gaps on their resume or during an interview?


Felons can address employment gaps by focusing on relevant experiences and transferable skills acquired during that time. Emphasize any volunteer work, education, or training programs completed during the gap. It is essential to showcase personal growth, rehabilitation, and the steps taken to improve oneself during the gap period.



3. How should felons respond to questions about their criminal background during an interview?


Felons should respond to questions about their criminal background with confidence and honesty, without oversharing unnecessary details. Briefly acknowledge the past mistake, highlight the steps taken towards personal growth and rehabilitation, and redirect the conversation towards their qualifications, skills, and enthusiasm.

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Tuesday, April 4, 2023

Felons can use Temp agencies to get jobs

Felons can use Temp agencies to get jobs

Felons can use Temp agencies to get jobs
Gordon Chibroski/Staff Photographer Portland Press Herald
Just recently my husband applied through a staffing agency called Staffmark trying to find some kind of employment. He has 3 more years on parole and has been out of prison for over 2 years. He and I have been married for a year this November and altogether have 3 children between us both. I am the only one working, supporting my 2 children and his biological child. He has full custody of her and can't find work anywhere. Staffmark actually called him back after he applied... went to the Tennessee Career Center in McMinnville,TN. for an interview. Did the entire hiring process for a temporary service... drug-screen, orientation... They gave him a tag-out badge, bank card to activate after his first check, and all the insurance information he needed to be able to decide what plans he wanted. As of yesterday, his brother, who is a supervisor at this company, Yorozu Automotive (has been trying to help get him in the door) , called yesterday informing him they are not going to hire him. The brother didn't know the reason, but told him to call the agency so they could explain why. He didn't lie on his application, I completed it for him online, his charges was for drugs... and it has been 7 years this coming February since his last arrest. So where do we go from here???


 Felons can use Temp agencies to get jobs



Felons can use Temp agencies to get jobsYour husband is on the right track. One-stop Career Centers are under-utilized resources. continue to use it. In relation to applying at temporary agencies, that is a good strategy.

I often encourage ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs to consider working as a temporary as a way of getting a permanent job. Temporary agencies are a great way to quickly get back into the working world. Many employers use agencies to try out new employees before hiring them. Good workers are hard to find. If an employer sees that you are hard working, punctual and fit in well, he may offer the job permanently. The key to applying for temporary employment for ex-offenders and felons is to apply at smaller independent agencies rather than large national companies. Small independent agencies have fewer hiring restrictions than larger national companies and are free to hire anyone they choose. He will be able to get a list of these agencies in your local phone directory.

One agency I recommend is Labor Ready.  They have an excellent track record of hiring ex-offenders and felons.  You will find their website here:  http://www.laborready.com/

I hope this helps.


Please Rate This Post at the Top!
 

Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: Where can Ex-offenders Find Jobs

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Jobs for Felons: Working with an Employment or Temp Agency


 
Felons can use Temp agencies to get jobs


Felons can use Temp agencies to get jobs

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Tuesday, March 28, 2023

In Our Opinion: Employers have the right to make informed decisions


Originally published The Daily StarTuesday, March 28, 2023

The Clean Slate NY campaign and Business Council of New York are fighting for a new law gaining traction in the state Senate, which would allow records of those New Yorkers with criminal convictions to be shielded from public view.

Here is how it would work: Individuals convicted of felonies other than sexual offenses would automatically have their convictions sealed seven years after sentencing or release from incarceration if it lasted longer than a year and if they have had no subsequent arrests and no pending cases in the state.

For individuals convicted of misdemeanors, records would be sealed three years after sentencing or release with the same stipulations.

Employers hiring for jobs dealing with vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, children and people with disabilities would continue to be able to check the conviction records of applicants, as would police departments, the courts, county prosecutors and criminal defense attorneys.

Advocates of the Clean Slate Act argue the measure is designed to allow those who have been sentenced for felonies and misdemeanors to get a second chance as they reintegrate into society.

Those who oppose the legislation, such as Sen. Dan Stec, R-Queensbury, said many people who have been convicted of crimes were already given two, three or even more chances before ending up with a record.

“If I’m hiring somebody to watch my kid, or watch my money or to do maintenance on my house, I want to know whether that individual has been convicted of a felony or a misdemeanor, and I think most people would agree,” Stec said. To seal such records automatically a few years after the individual has completed the court-imposed sentence, Stec added, “amounts to a slap in the face to everyone who bothers to obey the law.”

Assembly GOP Leader Will Barclay, R-Pulaski, said while he agrees second chances are important, “people have the right to make informed decisions.”

To that, we agree. Second chances are important. Although we would like to believe those who have served their time are no longer at risk of re-offending, that is just not the world we live in.

The Daily Star employs about 40 local residents. Those in management make hiring decisions regularly. Those decisions are not taken lightly.

New York state currently has protections in place both for businesses and those convicted of felonies and/or misdemeanors in Article 23-A of the state Correction Law.

Employers in New York are not allowed to discriminate against hiring ex-offenders, unless the felony and/or misdemeanor conviction(s) is related to the type of employment or license being sought.

The question we ask is, how does a business know whether or not a prior conviction disqualifies an individual from being hired if those records are sealed?

To business owners: If an applicant walked into your business, having served time for multiple counts of embezzlement, would you knowingly hire that candidate to your accounting department?

We doubt it.

To use our business as an example: We would likely hire that candidate. We would give them a second chance.

However, we would hire that candidate to work in a department other than accounting as long as they met the criteria for employment and we would be well within our rights to do so.

It is risk mitigation.

In this scenario, the applicant still has gainful employment.

We doubt anyone opposed to clean slate legislation would argue those convicted of felonies or misdemeanors do not deserve employment or that those individuals deserve to suffer for the rest of their lives. They absolutely deserve a shot.

So do employers.

Employers are faced with tough decisions every day. We believe, if they are expected to make those decisions, they should be given all of the facts.



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Jobs for Felons

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Wednesday, March 22, 2023

Shutting former felons out of opportunity is economically foolish

Nearly half of all children have a parent with a criminal record, and the US is losing $87 billion a year in GDP by not employing them



Shutting former felons out of opportunity is economically foolish
Ap Prison Visitor Fee A File Usa Az
(Photo: Matt York/AP)
Our nation’s failed experiment with overcriminalization has burdened between 70 million and 100 million people with criminal records. That's nearly a third of the population. Millions are marked with a scarlet letter that can lead to a lifetime of closed doors.

And closing opportunities — in housing, education and, more than anything else, employment — isn't just morally wrong, it's bad economic policy. 

The two of us don't agree on much — one of us is a former Obama administration official and the other works for Koch industries. But we both believe adamantly in the need for second chances and in the economic boon our country would experience if we fully gave them to people with criminal records who have paid their debt to society. 

And while there is some momentum in Congress to enact reforms on the federal level, the fact remains that the federal system is only a small part of America's criminal justice problem. The lion’s share of criminal records come from the states, and there’s much states can do to put fair chances within reach, no matter what happens in Washington in the coming weeks.

Doesn't make economic sense

Shutting people with criminal records out of the workforce costs the United States up to $87 billion in lost gross domestic product every year. Individuals who can’t make a living legally are more likely to continue breaking the law and are likely to go back to prison, causing costs to rise even higher. Needless, preventable cycles of recidivism strain government resources — and make our communities less safe.

If a job applicant has a criminal record, his chances of getting called back for the job or of getting a job offer are essentially cut in half. Sometimes, that bias is legally mandated. Most states have multiple occupational and business licensing laws that prohibit hiring people with felony convictions. Still more legal restrictions deny formerly incarcerated people access to crucial resources like loans, credit and educational opportunities. And if these individuals want to vote to change that system — well, they often can’t do that, either.

It’s not just individuals who suffer because of this discrimination — it’s entire families. More than 33 million kids in the USA have a parent with a criminal record.

When formerly incarcerated people can’t find housing, their children are often forced to live with grandparents or sent into foster care. These challenges can lead to behavioral and school performance problems that get in the way of a kid’s future — making it more likely for that family to be trapped in a cycle of poverty for generations.

Current laws aren't enough

There are already laws that are supposed to help folks get second chances. States allow people to petition to expunge or seal at least certain records. 

Nonetheless, thanks to antiquated and complex application processes, the steep cost of legal assistance and expensive court fees, millions of eligible Americans can’t move on with their lives.

Clearing those records should be made much simpler. Pennsylvania’s Republican-controlled legislature and Democratic governor managed to work together this summer to do just that. They passed legislation, known as the Clean Slate Act, that will automatically seal certain types of records once a person has shown that he's on the right track by remaining crime free for a set period. States as diverse as Michigan, South Carolina and Colorado are seeking to do the same.

It’s a commonsense move that will make a huge difference — both for individuals and for the economy. 

In Michigan, improvements for the formerly incarcerated were seen even during the first year that their records were "set aside," according to a University of Michigan study. Wages, for example, increased by 22 percent. 

And data collected by the Society for Human Resource Management and the Charles Koch Institute show that most in the business world are open to hiring and working alongside individuals with criminal records.

The midterm elections exposed the deep divisions so many feel in this country. It also marked the start of political careers for a number of state legislators and governors. As they think about what they’ll prioritize during their terms, we hope they'll take up legislation that will automatically seal or expunge records, to give people the chance to start over and strengthen their state and local economies. 

Our nation works only if we keep our promises. This is a chance for state legislators to lead the way for their federal counterparts by moving past the divisions that too often define our politics. It’s an opportunity to come together — to strengthen our communities, to support our neighbors, to give people the opportunity to succeed. When we say that everyone deserves another chance and a fair shot at the American dream, let’s make sure we mean it.


David Plouffe and Mark Holden, Opinion contributors
The original article can be found here: https://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/policing/2018/11/23/former-felons-being-pushed-out-workforce-hurting-our-economy/2016435002/


companies that hire felons



Eric Mayo

Companies Hire Felons | Companies That Hire Felons | Companies That Hire Ex-offenders | Employers That Hire Ex-offenders | Employers That Hire Felons | Jobs For Felons | Jobs For Ex-offenders | Jobs That Hire Felons | Resumes for Felons | Felon Friendly Jobs | Felon Friendly Employers | Jobs for Felons | Jobs For People That Have Felonies | Jobs For People With A Criminal Record

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Friday, March 3, 2023

Felon is looking for training and a career

Felon is looking for training and a career



Hello,

I am Allison, 29 yo, from southern CA.

My concern:

September 2020, I was charged with grand theft in the amount of $30,000 and as result I have a felony and must complete 5 years of felony probation. The actual crime occurred 8 years prior in 2012, at the age of 20. Characteristically, I don't even vaguely resemble the young person that I was then. I feel like I'm stuck working in a job that has no benefits, opportunities, or room for enhancement.

I was scheduled to begin classes this year for respiratory therapy, but the board does not allow felon participants because I will not be able to obtain state certification here in CA. Furthermore, as a convicted felon, I don't meet criteria to receive federally funded financial aid to attend any 2 year college.

I make $11 an hour and can't afford to pay for classes with my limited income.. I feel like giving up because I just don't know how to turn this around. The DA is willing to reduce it to a misdemeanor in 2 years and can be expunged after the $30,000 fine has been satisfied, but realistically, that may never happen.

In the meantime, I don't know what to do. I have an 8 yo son and I want to provide him with life beyond the necessities. I just don't know how or even where to begin.

Can you help me manage my life and come up with a plan, please?


Kindly,

Allison

 

Felon is looking for training and a career



Felon is looking for training and a career
Hello Allison,

Despite what you may consider a bleak situation, you are better off than most ex-offenders and felons...you have a job. You may not qualify for federal educational funding but you may qualify for occupational training funded by your state.  This training could very well be the start of a new career.  You can get more information from the state Dept. of Labor.  There is a Dept. of Labor representative at your local One-stop Career Center

As I suggest to most ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs, make a visit to your local One-stop Career Center. This is a really underutilized resource. Each state has a network of centers that provide an assortment of free services that can help you in getting a job. In addition, these centers provide a long list of services that can help people get jobs and even train them for new careers. Some services available are:


Career planning and counseling

Workshops (Resume Writing, Interviewing Skills, and related topics.)

Computers with internet access and word processing

Daily access to thousands of job listings

Job-related magazines and local newspapers

Job postings and referrals

Printers, fax machines, phones, and copiers for job search use

Each center has trained counselors that provide one-on-one assistance. Many of them have experience assisting ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs. You can find the One-stop Career Center nearest you at:

careeronestop.org



Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: Where can Ex-offenders Find Jobs

Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: Ten Steps to Getting a Job with a Criminal Record



Felon is looking for training and a career

Jobs for Felons: The Facts about Companies that Hire Ex offenders and Felons (2023)



Felon is looking for training and a career



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Monday, February 13, 2023

Can You Start a Business With a Criminal Record?


Can You Start a Business With a Criminal Record?

Yes, you can. Go get 'em, boss!

Originally published at Entrepreneur.com

Having a criminal record can make it difficult to get hired, find a place to live and many other basic tasks. But can it stop you from starting your own business? The short answer is, no it can't stop you.

Former criminals can benefit from starting a business in several important ways:

  • Self-direction. Rather than waiting for someone else to provide you with a job, you have the power to create something for yourself. It’s a challenge of your own making and one that can keep you focused and on the right track.
  • Independence and freedom. Many people start a business because it provides them with independence and freedom. They can make their own decisions and set their own rules, rather than following someone else.
  • Avoiding employment issues. Many ex-cons find it difficult to get hired because of their criminal past. But if you’re starting a business from scratch, you won’t have to go through the interview process; you’ll be working for yourself. Hello boss.

Key limitations


Of course, there are some issues and unique challenges faced by ex-cons attempting to start a business:

  • Felons and certain positions. For starters, felons are sometimes limited in the types of positions they can hold. For example, you may not be able to create a business or establish a position for yourself in the legal or medical field. These restrictions are often in place to protect the public from potentially unscrupulous service providers. However, there are plenty of other options to choose from.
  • Licensing and registry. Depending on the type of business you want to start, you may be required to get a license or permit to operate. Depending on the requirements, these documents may open the door to a personal background check. Your criminal record may make it more difficult to get the documentation and approvals you need to operate.
  • Travel. Criminal records can also impact your ability to travel, interfering with your visa or visa waiver applications. If your business depends on your ability to travel to other countries, you may need to find someone else to handle those responsibilities.
  • Funding. As an ex-con, you may also have trouble finding the funding you need to start your business. Banks that issue loans typically do background checks on borrowers. If you have a criminal history, you may have trouble getting approved for a loan. You may also encounter problems finding an angel investor or VC willing to contribute, based on your past.
  • Partnerships. Similarly, you may find it harder than usual to find a partner willing to build a business with you. You may have to spend a long time looking for someone more open-minded, or you may have to go it alone.

Play to your strengths


If you’re starting a business as someone with a criminal record, there are actually a few things that can play out in your favor if you know how to take advantage of them. For starters, you may be able to qualify for a grant or education program specifically tailored to entrepreneurs with a criminal past. For example, the organization Inmates to Entrepreneurs exists to provide grants, resources, and other forms of assistance to former criminals who want to turn their lives around. And organizations like SCORE offer free business mentoring and education to a wide range of aspiring business owners, regardless of their background.

Conventionally, a criminal record is a “bad thing” for your reputation and public image. However, you may be able to spin it as a positive for the business. For example, if you advertise that this business is hiring former prisoners as a way to help them start a new life, you may attract more customers who want to patronize the business and support it as an organization. This is especially true if you reinvest a portion of your profits into criminal reform programs and other causes that help people with criminal records.

Additionally, there may be some experiences and skills acquired in prison that can help you become a better entrepreneur. For example, if you’re used to an environment that’s both harsh and highly competitive, you’ll be a more ruthless strategist as a leader. And if you’re used to the uncertainty and lack of safety netting in a prison environment, the stress and ambiguity of entrepreneurship may seem tame by comparison.

So is it possible for a former criminal to start a successful business? Yes, it is. Countless ex-cons have gone on to create successful businesses under their direction. There are several obstacles you’ll need to overcome to do this, and there’s certainly no guarantee of success, but by using the right strategies and compensating for your weaknesses, you can increase your likelihood of accomplishing your goals.


15 Businesses You Can Start For Cheap (or even FREE)







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Can You Start a Business With a Criminal Record?


Eric Mayo

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Thursday, February 9, 2023

Top Five Job Interview Mistakes Ex-offenders and Felons Make

 Top Five Job Interview Mistakes Ex-offenders and Felons Make 



Top Five Job Interview Mistakes Ex-offenders and Felons make

Germantown nonprofit offers ex-offenders temporary jobs recycling electronics

Ex-offenders and felons,  know how difficult it is to get a job interview.  After properly filling out application after application including the dreaded "Have you ever been convicted of a crime.....?" question and you got an interview.  There are too many people who blow the opportunity to get jobs by making costly mistakes.  Make the most out your next opportunity by avoiding these top five mistakes made by ex-offenders and felons.


1.  Being Late - There is absolutely no excuse for being late to an interview.  To the interviewer, if you are late to the interview, you'll be late for work.  Everyone know that things happen.  Murphy's law is always in effect.  Sometimes thing go wrong.  Being organized is the best way to keep on schedule.  Find out where your interview is and know exactly how long it will take you to get there.  If you have never been there, I strongly suggest you go there a day or so before the interview just to see how long it will take to get there.  Once you know how long it will take, plan to get there at least 15 minutes early.

2.  Dress Inappropriately - An interview is a business meeting.  Does your clothing make you look more like an ex-offender or a businessman?  Proper clothing will be the difference between being hired and not being hired.  Whatever you have to do, get the right clothing.  Remember, you will never get a second chance to make a first impression.

3.  Talking Too Much - Employment interviews should not be used to tell your life story or ramble on about mistakes you have made in the past.  Just remember "TMI," too much information. Too often when folks are nervous, and interviews do make people nervous, they talk too much.  Never talk about personal situations, habits, or relationships.  Be friendly but never tell more than anyone needs to know.  Particularly avoid conversations about religious beliefs, politics, or sex.  If questioned about your convictions, briefly answer questions without going into detail.  Make reference to the amount of time that has gone by and what you have learned from your experience.  Also talk about the progress you have made and the things you have done to make yourself better.

4.  Using Slang or Profanity - As stated before, the interview is a business meeting between two professionals.  You must be professional at all times. There is absolutely no place for slang or profanity here.

5.  Not Turning off Your Cell Phone - Cell phones are a great convenience but they have no place on an interview.  Turning off your phone allows you to focus on your interview and will eliminate the possibility of the rude interruption of  it ringing.

Ex-offenders and felons have a difficult time finding employers who will consider them for jobs.  When interviews do come, avoid ruining these opportunities with these critical mistakes and get hired.

Take a few minutes to get more great information from the videos below that can give you a huge advantage at your next interview.

  Top Five Job Interview Mistakes Ex-offenders and Felons make 

 

These are some great tips along with some things felons should avoid at their next interview opportunity


Getting an interview is a great opportunity that felons must take full advantage of.  Too many people make mistakes that ruin their chances to get jobs.  Unfortunately, some people do not know that they are making mistakes.




Learn from Human Resources professional what the most common interview mistakes are and how to avoid them on your next interview.  pt 1


Learn from Human Resources professional what the most common interview mistakes are and how to avoid them on your next interview.  pt 2





Companies that Hire Felons



 Top Five Job Interview Mistakes Ex-offenders and Felons make


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