Ex-felon Wants a Job after Many Years in Prison

Hello sir,

I was reading your blog and I hope you can give me some advice. I have been getting into trouble since I was 12.  I'm 43 now and I believe my going to jail days are over.  I'm just sick and tired of this thing and it's time for me do something else with myself.  The problem is, I have never had a job.  I got my GED a few years ago, but not much else.  I need a job if I am going to stay straight.  How can I get a job with no experience at my age?  

I really want to do it this time.  Please help!

Thank you,

 Damon

Hello Damon,

I can't tell you how often I hear this.  The good news is, it's not impossible.  People in your situation get hired everyday.  You have something to offer to the right employer.  There are employers who don't hold criminal records against good applicants.

There are jobs that don't require previous experience.  Most employers with jobs to fill need someone who is dependable, friendly and can learn things quickly.

There are a few things to keep in mind.  When applying for jobs, please be honest about your past.  Honesty goes a long way.  In this day and age, information is too easy to get to risk blowing an opportunity by lying about the past.

Next thing, don't focus on what you don't have, focus on what you do have.  If you can convince an employer that you can get to work everyday on time and get the job done, you will get hired.

Thirdly, to increase your chances of getting hired, you have to apply for every job you feel qualified for.  The more jobs you apply for, the more interviews where you can speak to someone directly, the greater your chances to get a job.  Get a jump on your job search by clicking the link below.  It will take you to our huge list of companies that offer second chances to people who have criminal records.  You will also be able to search for open jobs in your area.

I'll be honest with you, it's going to be a grind and you will have to start at the bottom, but any experience you get will help you when looking for your next job.  It's going to take some determination.  If you are serious about staying straight, you will be willing to put in the work.

Best of Luck.

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Ex-felon Wants a Job after Many Years in Prison

Jobs for Felons

Felons Turn to the Military to Find Jobs and Careers

 

U.S. soldiers patrol central Baghdad's Fadhil neighbourhood  REUTERS/Erik de Castro

More and more Ex-offenders and felons are turning to military service as a means to a career. Getting a job with a criminal record is tough. Getting a job with a criminal record in a down economy is even tougher. The United States military is finding it tougher to find qualified recruits to fill the country's demands of its foreign policies. All branches of the military have been struggling to increase their numbers as part of a broader effort to meet the needs of world wide military operation. As a result, the number of recruits needing waivers for felony convictions has grown in recent years and subsequently, the number of waivers has also grown.

In some cases the military offers waivers to convicted felons making them eligible to serve. In fact the the number of waivers has steadily risen from 2007 to the present.

Typically the crimes that can keep you out of the army are larceny, assault, rape, drug related and murder. There is also consideration for those who have only one conviction and those crimes occurred years ago.  Generally, the Army will not grant waivers to recruits convicted of sexually violent offenses, narcotics trafficking or  sales.

For many felons, this is an opportunity to not only to put their backgrounds behind them find a job, but to learn skills, trades and start careers. The military may hold valuable jobs for felons.  If a felon is considering the military as a career option, historically, the Army has the best record of granting waivers and the Marines has the next best.  Just some information.

To get more information about waivers for ex-offenders and felons contact your local military recruiter.

 Felons Turn to the Military to Find Jobs and Careers

Steps to join the US Army

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'Eric Mayo helps Felons and Ex-offenders get Jobs

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 Felons Turn to the Military to Find Jobs and Careers

Felons should apply for all jobs they qualify for

Felons should apply for all jobs they qualify for

Expungement gives felons a second chance

HELP! I am a 25 year old who is a recovering addict from an auto accident which almost killed me. I am highly educated in Finance/Accounting. I worked on Wall Street and was well paid as an intern. I am now on a three year probation. I was hired at a very good company in NYC before the court recently convicted me. A background check was done at that time and all was clear since I had no convictions. I turned down the job at the time - approximately a year ago. If I were to return to that company who wanted to hire me and make my contacts, would the company once again do another criminal background check? Are there any high paying jobs online I can do from home since I am educated with degrees and talented in my field? Is my life over?

I cannot attend Law School unless these felonies are expunged which is unrealistic. I don't know where to turn, I feel hopeless, I never leave my home.

I would appreciate any help or information you can give me. Thank you, God Bless.

Heartbroken

Felons should apply for all jobs they qualify for

Hello Heartbroken,

I suggest contacting the person you were in contact with before. As I suggest to all ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs is to apply for every job you feel you are qualified for. The worst that could happen is you could be turned down. The way I see it, you will not get a job you don't apply for.

Regarding expungement, many ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs require legal assistance. I suggest contacting your local legal aid office. There you could get low-cost or even no cost advice to help you find out what your options are in your state.  Just as an FYI, even with an expungement, your conviction will always be visible to the court system, law enforcement and government agencies.

I hope this helps.

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Felons should apply for all jobs they qualify for

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 | Places That Hire Felons | Felon Friendly Jobs | Felon Friendly Employers | Jobs for Felons | Jobs For People That Have Felonies | Jobs For People With A Criminal Record | Expungement

Felon needs I.D. to get a Job

Hi,

My brother in law just got out 20 days ago after 3 1/2 years. He was convicted when he was 19 and he's now 23. He was convicted for accessory to murder and possession of an unregistered gun. He's been having a lot of trouble finding a job in Orange County, CA.

He's gone to many open interviews, and things seem to be great until they see that he a felony on his record. I've done some searching online and it shows that trucking companies will hire an ex-felon, but he's having so much trouble getting an ID that he doesn't even know about a Driver's License. He's tried going to his PO, but the PO doesn't seem to be much help or want to try and help.

He no longer has his birth certificate or SSC, so the DMV told him to get an official letter head from his PO and they would be able to issue him an ID, but his PO refuses to do this.

Felon needs I.D. to get a Job

Hello,

As far as his probation officer refusing to help him, his P.O. has a boss so he may have to go over his head for a little help.  Her may be able to help him get a birth certificate also.  I know parole officers who do this everyday.

This is often a dilemma for ex-offenders and felons job searching. Under the federal Immigration Reform and Control Act, newly hired employees must present documentation that they are authorized to work in the United States.  You will need three forms of identification to legally work in the United States.

Social Security Card

If do not have your Social Security card, you can get a duplicate car at your local Social Security office.  Below is a link to the application for a replacement cards along with instructions.

Application for Social Security Card

Birth Certificate

To obtain a copy of your birth certificate, contact the office of vital statistics in the city where you were born.

Valid Driver’s License

To obtain a copy of your driver’s license, contact your local motor vehicle agency.  It is listed in your local telephone directory.  Some motor vehicle agencies may even offer “Identification Only” cards if you do not have a driver’s license.

Photo Identification

Many county agencies provide photo identification cards.

Green Card (if necessary)

To obtain copies of your alien registration card contact the office of Immigration and Naturalization.  You can information about the process of renewing or replacing your green card here: Green Card Replacement Application Process

Check out this huge list of employers that offer opportunities to ex-offender and felons looking for jobs: Jobs for Felons

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

I hope this helps.

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Felon needs I.D. to get a Job

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.

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.

Jobs for felons | Jobs that Hire Felons