Jobs for Felons: How felons can get jobs

Steps to Find a Job with a Criminal Record

2024-12-01T12:10:00.000-05:00

Navigating the job market with a criminal record can present unique challenges and uncertainties for individuals seeking employment opportunities. Understanding the implications of a criminal record on the job search process is crucial in developing effective strategies to secure meaningful employment. From assessing transferable skills to addressing potential barriers during interviews, this article provides a comprehensive guide on the steps to finding a job with a criminal record. By exploring various aspects such as legal considerations, resume crafting, and support resources, job seekers can empower themselves with the knowledge and tools necessary to pursue fulfilling career opportunities despite past encounters with the criminal justice system.

Let's face it – having a criminal record can throw a curveball into your job search. Employers may be hesitant due to legal considerations and background checks. But fear not, there are ways to navigate these challenges with finesse.

Legal Considerations and Disclosures

When it comes to job applications, honesty is the best policy. Understand the legal implications of your criminal record and the disclosure requirements. Being upfront about your past shows integrity and a willingness to take responsibility.

Types of Jobs and Industries with Restrictions

Certain jobs and industries may have strict regulations regarding hiring individuals with criminal records. Research and understand these restrictions to focus your job search on opportunities where your record may not be a hindrance.

Assessing Your Skills and Experience

Now that the legal stuff is out of the way, let's focus on what really matters – your skills and experience. Even with a criminal record, you have valuable assets to offer potential employers.

Identifying Transferable Skills

Take stock of your skills and experiences, both from past jobs and life in general. Transferable skills like communication, problem-solving, and organization can be applied to various roles, showcasing your value beyond your record.

Exploring Education and Training Opportunities

Upskilling is a great way to enhance your qualifications and open up new job possibilities. Look into education and training programs that can improve your skills and make you a more competitive candidate in the job market.

Researching Job Opportunities

When it comes to finding job opportunities with a criminal record, strategic research is key. Discovering employers who are open to giving second chances can significantly boost your chances of landing a job.

Targeting Employers with Second Chance Hiring Programs

Some companies have initiatives specifically designed to hire individuals with criminal records. Seek out these employers who value diversity and inclusion, providing opportunities for individuals looking to rebuild their careers.

Networking Strategies for Job Seekers with Criminal Records

Networking can be a powerful tool in your job search arsenal. Build connections with individuals in your target industries, attend job fairs, and engage in online networking to uncover hidden job opportunities and gain valuable insights.

Resumes and Cover Letters

Time to showcase your awesomeness on paper! Crafting a standout resume and cover letter can help you stand out from the crowd and demonstrate why you're the right fit for the job, despite your past.

Highlighting Achievements and Skills Relevant to the Job

Focus on your achievements, skills, and qualifications that are directly relevant to the job you're applying for. Highlighting your strengths can overshadow any concerns about your criminal record and impress potential employers.

Addressing Resume Gaps and Volunteer Work

If you have gaps in your employment history due to your record, consider including volunteer work, freelance projects, or any relevant activities that demonstrate your skills and work ethic. Showcasing your dedication and growth can speak volumes to potential employers.

Remember, finding a job with a criminal record may have its challenges, but with the right mindset, skills, and strategies, you can overcome obstacles and land a job that values your potential and contributions.## Navigating the Job Application and Interview Process

Strategies for Handling Background Check Discussions

During job interviews, be prepared for discussions about your criminal record. Be upfront about your history while emphasizing your skills and qualifications. Address any concerns the employer may have with honesty and openness.

Addressing Your Criminal Record During the Job Search

Developing an Honest and Positive Explanation

Craft a clear and concise explanation of your criminal record that focuses on personal growth and lessons learned. Highlight how your experiences have shaped your character and work ethic.

Understanding Your Rights Regarding Background Checks

Familiarize yourself with your rights when it comes to background checks. Know what information can be legally considered and understand how to address any discrepancies that may arise.

Seeking Support and Resources for Job Seekers with Criminal Records

Utilizing Reentry Programs and Job Training Services

Explore reentry programs and job training services that cater to individuals with criminal records. These resources can provide valuable support, guidance, and opportunities for skill development.

Connecting with Nonprofit Organizations and Support Groups

Join nonprofit organizations and support groups that specialize in assisting individuals with criminal records in finding employment. These communities offer a network of understanding individuals and valuable resources to help you navigate the job search process effectively.In conclusion, while having a criminal record may pose obstacles in the job search journey, it does not define one's potential for success. By proactively addressing challenges, honing skills, and seeking support, individuals with criminal backgrounds can showcase their talents and contributions to prospective employers. With determination, resilience, and a strategic approach, finding a job with a criminal record is not only possible but can also lead to a rewarding and fulfilling career path. Remember, everyone deserves a second chance to build a brighter future.

How to get a job with a criminal record

Click the link below to find a huge list of employers that may hire people with criminal records.

jobs for felons | second chance jobs for felons | jobs that hire felons | Hire felons | Felon Friendly Jobs

Jobs for Felons

Felons can use Temp agencies to get jobs

2024-12-01T00:00:00.001-05:00

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

Your 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

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

Jobs for Felons: Working with an Employment or Temp Agency

Felons can use Temp agencies to get jobs

Ex-felon Wants a Job after Many Years in Prison

2024-11-30T11:28:00.000-05:00

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.

Criminal history questions on job applications could soon become illegal

Jobs for Felons: The Facts about Companies that Hire

Ex-offenders and Felons (2024)

Ex-felon Wants a Job after Many Years in Prison

Jobs for Felons

Felons Turn to the Military to Find Jobs and Careers

2024-11-24T05:00:00.000-05:00

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

Check out my Facebook page.

'Eric Mayo helps Felons and Ex-offenders get Jobs

Felons Turn to the Military to Find Jobs and Careers

Felons should apply for all jobs they qualify for

2024-10-28T05:14:00.000-04:00

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.

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

Felons should apply for all jobs they qualify for

Felon needs I.D. to get a Job

2024-10-27T04:50:00.003-04:00

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.

Felon needs I.D. to get a Job

Things Felons Should Never Say on an Interview

2024-02-15T14:13:00.002-05:00

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

How to Get a Job With a Felony on Your Record

2023-11-18T14:16:00.001-05:00

Originally published by robert.bruce@thepennyhoarder.com (Robert Bruce)
Apr 12, 2023

Everyone deserves a second chance.

But in the past, many job seekers with a felony record have found it difficult to reintegrate into the workforce. The dreaded check-the-box-question, “Have you been convicted of a crime in the past 10 years?” can be a huge obstacle.

Change to this approach by employers has been slow, but change is happening.

In 2016, 19 large, influential employers gathered at the White House with President Barack Obama to sign the Fair Chance Business Pledge, which represented “a call-to-action for all members of the private sector to improve their communities by eliminating barriers for those with a criminal record and creating a pathway for a second chance.”

A few years later, the federal “ban the box” law — formally known as the Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act of 2019 (FCA) — was enacted to prohibit federal employers, including private companies with federal contracts, from asking about arrests and criminal convictions before a conditional job offer. Employers can still inquire about criminal history, including a background check, after a conditional offer is made.

Additionally, 37 states and 150 cities and counties across the country have adopted similar “ban the box” laws, according to the National Employment Law Project.

With potential employers being more open, at least publicly, to hiring felons, here’s how job seekers with criminal records should navigate the job hunting process as they attempt to enter the workforce.

Obstacles Felons Face Finding Jobs

When trying to reintegrate into society, formerly incarcerated individuals already are up against the eight ball — without even factoring in a felony conviction on their record.

“It’s different from place to place, but typically you get $200 — enough to get some clothing and a bus ticket, and you have to figure it out from there,” says Adam Sanders, founder and reentry adviser at The Relaunch Pad, an organization that helps felons find employment and reintegrate into society.

“Then if you’ve been in prison for several years, you don’t have a valid government ID aside from your prison ID,” Sanders says. Most people leaving prison don’t have a permanent address or phone number. That process can take several weeks, making it even harder to find work immediately.

Parole requirements can also affect employment. “Having to report two or three times a week during normal business hours can make it very difficult in any job, let alone a job you have trouble getting to begin with,” Sanders says.

Outside of situational difficulties, felons also face a lot of stigma and misconception during the hiring process, Sanders says. They’re viewed as dishonest, lazy, unintelligent or simply not worth investing time in. A potential employer might feel like it’s a countdown to when the job seeker will be back in prison, so why invest in an employee who isn’t going to be around long?

So how do job seekers with criminal records overcome these inherent obstacles?

How to Find a Job With a Felony

Follow these tips on searching for the right jobs and moving through the job search and hiring process.

1. Use word-of-mouth. People without criminal records use their network, friends and family to find jobs. The same applies for people with felony convictions. “That tends to be where I’ve seen people get jobs the fastest,” Sanders says. “Maybe somebody from your church is looking for a receptionist. Apply at companies where you can get a referral and a friend can say, ‘Yeah, I know this guy. He’s a good guy.’ ” Adding that personal angle is a definite advantage when trying to overcome an obstacle like a criminal record.

2. Don’t be picky. “It’s much easier to find a second job after you already have a little bit of job history,” Sanders adds. “If you can get in somewhere and establish yourself as someone who shows up, does their job as a reliable employee, it’s much easier to climb the ladder.”

3. Search in industries that need workers. Manufacturing, manual labor, customer service and restaurants tend to be more open to hiring people with criminal records because they have looser policies. Sanders says COVID-19 also greatly affected employers’ willingness to hire felons. “They’re willing to take a chance because they just need people,” he says.

4. Be proactive. Once you get in front of someone, Sanders says it’s vital to pitch yourself and prove how you’ll be a good employee. “If you can present yourself as somebody who’s willing to go the extra mile, someone who’s willing to take initiative, you’d be surprised at how many people are willing to say ‘sure’ even if your background isn’t ideal.”

5. Honesty is the best policy. Being honest is incredibly important when facing the initial “check-the-box” question: “Have you ever been convicted of a crime?” Almost every employer asks the question, so it’s vital to get the awkward out of the way and go ahead and deal with it. Says Sanders: “If they’re open to hiring people with convictions, they’re looking for people who take responsibility and are going to be honest with their employer going forward.” He adds that there’s no need to go into great detail about the conviction on the front end.

6. Consider going into sales. “This is actually one of the skills that we emphasize with the guys we work with,” Sanders says. “If you can become a good salesman, it literally doesn’t matter what your background is in many cases.” Sales is just a valuable skill to have in general, regardless of whether you have a criminal record. “If you can sell, you can make a great living, and you will always have a job.”

Sanders says the key to finding a job as a felon is just having the right mindset. “It’s not easy, but a lot of people have done it. You can do it, too. Just keep your head up, keep pushing, and something will come along.”

14 Major Companies That Hire Felons

While it’s hard to verify which companies, in practice, are willing to hire felons, many corporations signed the Fair Chance Business Pledge. Some of the more prominent companies include:

American Airlines
The Coca-Cola Co.
Facebook
Georgia Pacific
Google
The Hershey Co.
The Johns Hopkins Hospital and Health System
Koch Industries
PepsiCo
Prudential
Starbucks
Uber
Unilever
Xerox

See the full list of companies that signed the Fair Chance Business Pledge.

Robert Bruce is a senior staff writer at The Penny Hoarder covering earning, saving and managing money. He has written about personal finance for more than a decade.

This was originally published on The Penny Hoarder, a personal finance website that empowers millions of readers nationwide to make smart decisions with their money through actionable and inspirational advice, and resources about how to make, save and manage money.

ebook

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

2023-03-28T12:34:00.000-04:00

Originally published The Daily Star, Tuesday, 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.

Jobs for Felons

Shutting former felons out of opportunity is economically foolish

2023-03-22T02:30:00.001-04:00

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

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/

Eric Mayo

Five Bottom Line Reasons Why Employers Should Hire Ex-Felons

2023-03-20T03:30:00.000-04:00

Mike Green, Contributor

Co-founder, ScaleUp Partners LLC

There is no city in the nation that’s growing faster than the population of 70 million Americans with criminal records. As one of them, former real estate developer R.L. Pelshaw is determined to turn this costly societal burden into an opportunity. “With criminal records it’s difficult for many ex-offenders to get jobs making a livable wage,” Pelshaw said. “Showing (ex) criminals how to be successful in legal businesses is far better then returning to crime, and will change the destiny of millions of people.” For employers, there exists a real opportunity to disrupt the continuous cycle of quarantining humans. And for the sake of society at large, sustainable employment may not only represent our best opportunity to significantly disrupt recidivism and the growing population of Americans with criminal records, it may be our only option. Consider the costs. Between 1973 and 2009, the nation’s prison population grew by 705 percent. Over the past two decades costs of incarceration have skyrocketed more than 305 percent, according to a 2011 Pew study. States now spend more than $52B out of their budgets (second only to Medicaid), for incarceration. And the economic impact inherent in the process of policing and locking up those who perpetrate crimes in our communities is compounded by the economic impact of high recidivism rates of 84 percent for males, age 24 years and younger. This revolving door is fueled by a pipeline that has grown exponentially over the past several decades to the point where the United States incarcerates more of its population than any nation in the world. America’s employers must take note of what happens to released inmates when they re-enter society, often after years of being quarantined, and with little hope of finding employment that funds a new path to productive citizenship. In 2012, more than 630,000 inmates were released into targeted communities across America. According to the latest study by the Bureau of Justice, three of every four released prisoners were re-arrested within the five-year life of the study. An extraordinarily high percentage (89 percent) of ex-felons re-arrested were unemployed. Pelshaw is determined to change that. He launched and self-funded a campaign called, The National Hire Ex-Felons Campaign, designed to inform employers of the benefits of tapping into this 70-million-strong workforce. Of course, there are plenty of unemployed people who do not commit crimes. The suggestion is not that employment alone is a panacea for this national problem. But, there is no other immediate option to developing sustainable financial stability for ex-felons. The longer that former inmates remain unemployed following release, the greater the risk they will seek income through alternative means. Their fate impacts the fate of families, communities and ultimately society at large. Employment is one of the tools we have to address this growing problem. Those who pay their debt to society and emerge from prison with a new perspective and lease on life deserve an opportunity to earn a living. They represent a class of prospective employees unlike any other. But, why should employers assume the risk of hiring ex-felons? You may be surprised by these five fact-based, bottom line reasons. Hiring Incentives: Finding good help is a key factor in running a successful business. Too many employers get robbed daily by lazy employees who work with a sense of entitlement, watching the clock, anticipating that moment they can break free of the bonds that trap them in cubicles, offices and warehouses. Many daydream of weekend getaways and play-cations while robotically moving through tasks, diluting the level of worker productivity. Ex-felons are no stranger to hard work. And they are grateful for the opportunity to earn a living. Most believe they have something to prove to their families and employers. But there are additional bottom line incentives to employers who hire former inmates. Substantial tax credits are available for hiring ex-felons, such as the Federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit. Some states even provide partial wage reimbursement, additional tax credits, and other training funds for employers who hire ex-felons.
“We’ve had three (subsidies) that amount to several hundreds of thousands of dollars to bear down on training our employees,” said Mike Hannigan, CEO of Give Something Back. “It’s amazing to me how many resources are available to a company.” Employers who hire felons can also be eligible to obtain a free fidelity bond funded by the federal government to protect them against employee dishonesty or theft. More importantly, credible studies clearly indicate that ex-felons out of prison seven years or more have no higher rate of committing a crime than non-felons. A 2009 University of Maryland study found that people with a criminal record are at no greater criminal risk after they’ve been out seven to 10 years than those with no record. Employee Reliability: Few things hurt a business more than high turnover rates. Employers who spend too much time with a focus on hiring employees who won’t leave shortly thereafter find themselves neglecting other areas of the business that require attention. Ex-felons have far fewer options than conventional employees. Due to the scarcity of opportunities for ex-felons, many employers that hire them have lower turnover than with conventional hires. According to the Partnership for Safety and Justice, many ex-felons have a favorable employment and educational history. “In general, formerly incarcerated people are as reliable as other workers,” the report states, citing numerous studies. Hiring Opportunity: The landscape of employable ex-felons is large. Ex-offenders on probation often have to maintain employment as a condition of release. Most parolees are drug-tested by their probation officer or halfway house at no expense to employers. Most parole officers and halfway houses welcome contact with employers of supervised felons. That supervision de-risks the employment opportunity and is an added value at no cost to the employer. An estimated 6.9 million persons were under supervision of adult correctional systems in 2013, according to the Bureau of Justice. This is a significant, largely untapped and motivated work force. A 2008 study by the Urban Institute Justice Policy Center found that fewer than 45 percent of felons were employed eight months after being released. In real numbers that means more than 3.5 million prospective workers are available for hire. Economic Impact: Employers can make a considerable difference in transforming a criminal liability into a community asset. Unemployed ex-felons are at a greater risk of re-offending compared to employed ex-felons. Many ex-felons turn to crime and return to jail (recidivism) because they can’t find a job paying a livable wage.
“People who break the law need to be held accountable and pay their debt to society,” said Adam Gelb, director of the Pew Center on the States’ Public Safety Performance Project. “At the same time, the collateral costs of locking up 2.3 million people are piling higher and higher.” According to VERA institute of Justice, the U.S. spends nearly40 billion a year to house inmates. The average cost per state to house one inmate is31,286 per year. But if that one felon gets a job instead of returning to prison, he or she now contributes to the economy by more than $10,000 a year, according to a Baylor University study. Crime Market Disruption: An estimated 70 million U.S. adults have arrest or conviction records based on Bureau of Justice statistics. Tougher sentencing laws, especially for drug offenses, have swelled that total. Society can’t afford to simply banish 70 million people from the workplace. Children of incarcerated adults are the highest at-risk group in America. Many follow in their parents’ footsteps, continuing the cycle of crime and fueling a criminal market pipeline. Children of felons are seven times more likely to be incarcerated themselves. They are more likely (23 percent vs 4 percent) to be expelled or suspended from school than other children.
And the criminal market isn’t just isolated to minority populations. Across the nation, 40 percent of young men (regardless of race) will have a police-record encounter before the age of 23. Of those incarcerated, 84 percent will return to prison. It’s a continuous criminal market cycle that costs taxpayers more than $52 billion a year and threatens the stability of families and communities, in particular those already suffering from economic distress. Employing an ex-felon can disrupt the cycle of this criminal market and provides an opportunity to restore stability to families through a solid financial footing. “To fight the vicious circle of crime and recidivism we need to create ways offenders, ex-offenders, those at risk to offend, and those living off crime (but not yet caught) can make money legitimately,” said Pelshaw, who is also the author of Illegal to Legal: Business Success for (ex) Criminals. With more than 630,000 inmates released into neighborhoods across America every year, the community of ex-felons released each year is larger than the population of many major cities. Employers are already discovering the challenges of finding good employees without criminal records. Perhaps it’s time employers considered the benefits of hiring good employees who happen to be ex-felons. Originally seen at Huffingtonpost.com: https://www.huffingtonpost.com/mike-green/five-bottom-line-reasons-_b_8021476.html

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

Eric Mayo

Tips to Help Ex-Felons Get Jobs

2023-03-19T04:00:00.002-04:00

Tips to Help Ex-Felons Get Jobs

Thanks for stopping by my blog. You are here because either you have a criminal record and want to put your past behind you by getting a job and becoming a contributing member of society or you want to help someone you really care about. Getting a job with a criminal record is going to be difficult but not impossible. I work with ex-felons everyday and many of them get jobs right away while others have to put more work and be more determined to overcome their individual situations. Here are some important steps that ex-offenders and ex-felons can take to dramatically increase their opportunity to get hired

Tips to Help Ex-Felons Get Jobs

Get a Copy of your Criminal Record

At some time during the job search, the question about criminal record is going to come up. I encourage my students to be totally honest when talking about their background. The best way to do this is to have an accurate record of your criminal convictions. If you have a probation or parole officer, he/she can help you get a copy of your record.

Find out if the convictions on your record can be sealed or expunged. To be clear, NO RECORDS CAN BE ERASED. If someone tells you that you can erase your record, do not believe them. There are legal processes that can have certain convictions and charges hidden from public view making your record easier to work with. Your record, even if hidden from public view, will always be available to all government agencies, court systems and law enforcement.

There are lawyers who make tons of money by using these processes so they are not going to like this but, you can get this done for little or no money. I suggest to all of my students to contact their local legal aid office. There you will be able to find out of expungement or sealing is available in your state and what can be done about your record. If it is an option for you, you can get help getting it done for little or no money.

Get Some Really Good References

Increasingly employers are paying attention to references when considering new employees. Ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs should be able to provide strong references that will help them make a good impression on employers. There are employers that will hire a felon and a strong set of references from the right people can help you get hired.

References are upstanding members of the community who would say something positive about you. Good references could help an employer look past your record. References from religious leaders, teachers, former employers and local political leaders would look great to an employer.

Most employment applications ask for for three references. You should always have at least four. Be prepared to list a name, title, and contact information for each one. Make certain contact information is current and keep it updated. Over time, phone numbers, titles and addresses change.

Get permission from anybody you want to use as a reference. Let them know that you are looking for a job and a reference from them would really help. Never offer anyone as a reference without their consent. Once you have your references all together, keep them in your job search folder for easy access when it is time to fill out an application.

Only offer references when they are requested. Never put references on a resume. Include a line on the resume that may say "References will be furnished upon request."

Taking the time to get good references will have a powerful impact on your job search.

Get A Resume

If you are looking for a job without a well written resume, you are at a disadvantage. A resume is a short, concise document that states relevant information regarding your education, skills, experiences, accomplishments, and job-related background. A well written resume will help you present your best qualities to an employer. If you have a resume, have a professional person look at it to judge it's quality. If you do not have a well written resume, I suggest you get some help putting one together.

Dress to Get Hired

First impressions are very important. What people think upon meeting you depends so much on what they see. When prospective employers meet you for the first time what will they think they see? Will they see a potential problem? Will they see an ex-con trying to get a job? Will they see a polished professional looking for an opportunity? That will totally be up to you.

It is important that you look like someone of quality. A well fitting suit with a nice shirt, a coordinated tie and polished shoes is what most ex-offenders and ex-felons should shoot for. Your clothing should more for you that anything you say.

Get Some Quality Job Leads

Do you know what type of job you are looking for? Do you know where open jobs are? There are many ways to find out where jobs are.

1. Networking - Networking is the single best way to find out where jobs are. Networking is simply talking to people you already know to find out if they know about any open positions.

2. State Job Services - State sponsored employment services have access to job openings and other services that can help you get a job.

3. Temporary Employment - Companies use temporary employment services when they need help immediately for a certain amount of time. A temporary agency could have you working on a very short time. Some temporary assignment turn into permanent jobs. Temporary agencies cater to a wide array of businesses like offices, restaurants, construction companies and even the medical industry. Whatever type of work you do, you will be able to find a temporary agency that needs employees. Check you local telephone directory or search online for agencies in your area and apply just as you would any other employer.

4. Help Wanted Ads - Help wanted ads can be found in local newspapers. These advertisements can be found in the classifieds section of you daily newspaper, having listings of open jobs. Ex-offenders and Ex-felons looking for jobs can also use the Internet to find help wanted ads.

Unfortunately, not all job fields are open to ex-offenders and ex-felon and you may not get the job you want right away. You may have to start at the bottom and work your way up. Be prepared

Practice Interviewing

The key to successful interviewing is practice. You will have to practice how to answer questions especially the one you will get that relate to your criminal record. Find someone to work with you practicing answering questions until you sound convincing.

These tips will get you started on your task of finding a job. As I said before, it won't be easy, but having determination and working hard will definitely pay off

Tips to Help Ex-Felons Get Jobs

Eric Mayo

Felon is looking for training and a career

2023-03-03T08:30:00.000-05:00

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

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

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

Felon is looking for training and a career

Can You Start a Business With a Criminal Record?

2023-02-13T05:41:00.002-05:00

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)

Can You Start a Business With a Criminal Record?

Eric Mayo

Top Five Job Interview Mistakes Ex-offenders and Felons Make

2023-02-09T07:00:00.003-05:00

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

Top Five Job Interview Mistakes Ex-offenders and Felons make

Understanding how records can be sealed

2023-02-07T04:30:00.001-05:00

Originally published on Feb 23, 2020
Joann Sahl AND Russell Nicholls
Herald Star

Eligible offenders convicted of certain types of crimes can ask the court to expunge, or seal, their convictions. If the court seals a conviction, that conviction is no longer in the public record. Courts seal records so that eligible offenders can move on with their lives without the stigma of a criminal conviction.

Qualifying for sealing

An eligible offender is someone who has no more than five felony convictions. An eligible offender may have unlimited misdemeanor convictions. When a court determines if you are eligible for sealing, it will not consider minor misdemeanors and most convictions for possession of marijuana (which is generally a minor misdemeanor). The court also will not consider most minor traffic offenses, but it will consider convictions for OVIs and DUIs.

Most misdemeanors, fourth and fifth-degree felonies, and in some instances a third-degree felony, can be sealed unless a criminal statute specifically states that a particular crime is not eligible.

Though the court will not consider minor traffic offenses when determining if you are an eligible offender, traffic offenses, including OVIs/DUIs, cannot be sealed. Additionally, you cannot seal first- and second-degree felonies, and any felony with a mandatory prison sentence. Finally, almost all crimes of violence, sex crimes and offenses where the victim was under 16 years old cannot be sealed. However, first-degree misdemeanor assault and domestic violence menacing, a fourth-degree misdemeanor, can be sealed in some circumstances.

How to apply for sealing

You may apply for sealing if one year has passed since your sentence ended for a misdemeanor. If you have one felony, you have to wait three years after your felony sentence ends. For two felonies, the waiting period is four years, and for three to five felonies, you must wait five years after your last felony sentence ended. In addition, the waiting period generally does not begin until you pay any restitution you might owe, as well as fines.

Your request for sealing should be filed in the court where you were sentenced. Once you apply, the court will set a hearing date. The probation department will usually investigate your case and prepare a report for the court to use to determine whether you are an eligible offender. The prosecutor may challenge the sealing request by filing an objection before the hearing date.

The court will determine if you have been rehabilitated, and it will weigh your interest in clearing your name against the government’s need to allow public access to your records. The court will review the probation report to see how you have behaved since the conviction. The decision whether to seal your record is up to the judge.

It is important to know that the court will not automatically seal your case if it was dismissed, you were found not guilty or if the grand jury issued a “no bill” and refused to indict you. You must follow the procedure outlined in this article to get records sealed. There is no waiting period to file for sealing a dismissal or a not guilty verdict. A person may apply to have a “no bill” sealed two years after it is filed.

Access to sealed records

In some situations, the law allows certain employers and state agencies to access your sealed record.

Examples include if you want to care for an older adult, work for a children’s services agency, work for a bank or want to work as a police or corrections officer.

If you apply for a state vocational license, the licensing agency also may be able to see your sealed record. In addition, the police may be able to access your sealed record as part of a criminal case or investigation or if you are seeking a concealed carry permit.

People might also be able to find out about your conviction online. There are many private background check companies, as well as news articles, that may have information about your criminal case. Those organizations will not receive notice that your conviction has been sealed. Once the court seals your record, you should try to notify any organization that has a record of your conviction. It is important to remember that potential employers may use these companies to perform pre-employment background checks, and your conviction could still appear on a background check.

How an attorney can help

It can be complicated to determine if you are eligible to have your criminal record sealed. It requires a review of all of your convictions, even those in other states, and the appropriate law. An attorney can look at your criminal record to help you decide if you are eligible to have your record sealed.

(Sahl is the assistant director of the University of Akron Legal Clinic. Nichols is the director of the Expungement Clinic and the Inmate Assistance program at the University of Akron Law School. The column was written as part of the Ohio State Bar Association’s Law You Can Use series.)

Understanding how records can be sealed

Sealing a Criminal Record

Jobs for Felons, 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, Jobs for Felons, Sealing of Records, Careers for Felons

Understanding how records can be sealed

Eric Mayo

Facing a stigma, many ex-convicts in the U.S. struggle to find work

2023-02-03T14:18:00.002-05:00

BY ARIANA FREEMAN, JAN CRAWFORD - JANUARY 31, 2023 / 8:13 PM / CBS NEWS

Nearly 80 million Americans, or about one-third of the total U.S. adult population, are living with some kind of criminal record.

For more than 19 million Americans, that conviction has led to a felony on their permanent record. And in states like Virginia, that is a stain some are forced to live with for the rest of their lives.

"Are we giving out the potential for someone to reform their life and change, or are we giving them consequences that will prevent them from ever having a life that they never imagined having?" Melod Teymorian, 35, told CBS News.

Teymorian was convicted of a felony in 2016 for a non-violent drug offense: possession of a controlled substance. He believes the punishment nowhere near fit the crime. Although he has been sober ever since, he said he has been denied numerous employment opportunities and housing.

"As if you didn't feel bad enough, and you haven't been trying to destroy your life on your own, let's help you," Teymorian said.

With a sincere and engaging style, Teymorian said he believed that, after each interview, the job was his.

"They liked who I was and they thought I was a good fit for the job," Teymorian said. "And despite that, because of this possession, as a result of a drug charge, they couldn't move forward."

As luck would have it, Teymorian met David Engwall, executive director for Recovery Unplugged, a rehabilitation center in Northern Virginia. What every employer before him saw as something negative they could not look past, Engwall looked at as a bonus.

"You see, with a person like Melod, you know, if given the opportunity, and I know there's plenty of people that are like Melod out there, what they will produce will be incredible. They just need to have the opportunity," Engwall proclaimed.

Engwall has numerous employees with felonies on their records, and believes the term "felon" has been overly stigmatized. When asked what he would say to people who believe felons deserve to be punished their entire lives, his response was simple.

"I'd say life is incredibly complex," Engwall said. "It's very hard to know the circumstances that lead a person…to how these felonies happen."

"We're allowing this enormous group of people to just sort of waste away and continue to persist in these same issues of employment and housing and access," Engwall added.

In 2025, Virginia is slated to re-examine its felony law, and look at whether convicted felons will be allowed to expunge that stain from their records. But as it stands today, they cannot be erased.

"I'm resilient," Melod said. "And I believe that. And that same resiliency that I had to face before I had the job helped when I had the opportunity. I will solve the problem."

Jobs for Felons

Jobs for Felons: They Want Something Better

2023-01-25T00:30:00.000-05:00

COURTESY PHOTO | Charles participated in the STEP Forward program, which runs through the McHenry County Workforce Network and is designed to fill local employers’ needs while giving ex-offenders an opportunity for employment. “I’m so grateful for them,” Charles said.

by Susan W. Murray, The Woodstock Independent

Charles, a 41-year-old McHenry County resident, grew up “in a diverse community where there were gangs and drugs.”

By the age of 13, he was caught up in both. At 17, he went to prison for the first time at the Joliet Correctional Facility. He spent 13 years of his life incarcerated.

“There were many instances when I should have been dead,” Charles said. “At one point, I was, almost.”

Upon his last release, he realized how tired he was of the life he had been living.

“I wanted to do better for myself,” he said.

Up against long odds

Minimum wage jobs filled the gaps between prison stretches, but they didn’t add up to a career path. While considering getting a commercial driver’s license, Charles heard about the STEP Forward program – Stateline Transforming Employment Potential.

Launched in 2018, the program grew as a response to the needs of McHenry County employers.

As a business services representative at the McHenry County Workforce Network, which assists job seekers in finding positions, Thomas Faber tries “to find out what local employers need.”

That need, especially as the economy improved after 2010, Faber said, was for “more and more skilled workers.”

In pondering that problem, Faber came to a somewhat surprising solution.

“I don’t think that we’ve considered people who have criminal backgrounds,” he thought.

The FBI’s centralized database lists 70 million people in the United States who have criminal records. That’s nearly 28 million more than have bachelor’s degrees and represents 21 percent of the population.

“We need to be open to the possibility that ex-offenders can be good workers,” Faber said.

Workshops start process

A board member of the Stateline Society of Human Resource Management, Faber took his idea to other board members, hoping it could address employers’ needs and help ex-offenders.

The board reacted enthusiastically and set up a STEP Forward Steering Committee. Faber and the committee created a five-week series of workshops to be run through the Workforce Network to help ex-offenders plan a return to work, identify a career path, write a résumé, and handle themselves in job interviews, with tips on how to keep a job and advance at a company.

McHenry County College supported the program with pre-apprentice training and then created boot camps – short-term training in various fields, including manufacturing.

Faber recruited volunteer presenters from MCC, local employers, human resource departments, and state and government agencies.

“The first workshop had two participants and six volunteers,” Faber said. “We outnumbered them.”

But the word got out, and soon more participants were signing up for the five-session workshops.

Combining work, training

Faber sits down with each ex-offender who comes to the Workforce Network, including some convicted of armed robbery and murder, but he is comfortable meeting face-to-face.

“A majority of them have gone through a transformation,” Faber said. “They want something better.”

He is less interested in the crimes his interviewees have committed and more “in how transparent they are.”

“If they’re honest, that’s someone I can work with and who an employer can work with,” Faber explained.

After Charles completed his workshop sessions, he identified an interest in CNC – computer numerical control of machine tools. After starting classes on lathe and mill operation through the Technology and Manufacturing Association, Charles heard from Faber about an opportunity to work at Variable Operations Technologies (Vo-Tech, Inc.) in Crystal Lake for 20 hours a week, getting on-the-job training while continuing his education.

Afraid that people would look down on him for his many tattoos and his “vernacular,” Charles dedicated himself to being on time, paying attention to detail, and being a hardworking employee. He “always had a strong work ethic,” he said, even when he was involved in the drug trade.

“This time, putting my best foot forward led me in the right direction,” he said.

When Charles finished his classes, he was hired full time as a CNC technician at Vo-Tech.

The job came with a steady income, insurance, vacation time, and a gym where employees may work out. During the pandemic, Vo-Tech’s production of computer-automated machining systems for the nuclear, healthcare, agriculture, and food industries meant that he was considered an essential employee.

“That was a great feeling,” he said. “I take pride in going to work every day.”

Creating believers

Adam Furman, Vo-Tech’s operations manager, said that four of his company’s 24 employees have come from the STEP Forward program.

His sister and fellow Vo-Tech employee, Jennifer Chrachol, first heard of the program. She learned that companies that hire and train someone from STEP Forward are eligible for cost reimbursement and subsidies for the person’s salary.

While acknowledging the financial pluses of the program, Furman said he would advise other companies not to sign on “just to benefit from the program.”

“Hiring people is always a risk,” Furman said, and he praised Faber for the job he does to screen people before recommending them to a local employer.

“These people are hungry to learn, to get a job, and to start a new direction in their lives,” Furman said. “It’s hard to find that sort of person, even without a criminal background.”

Furman makes it a point to go out on the floor and talk with his employees each day before heading to his office.

“You have to get to know the people and build a relationship with them to create trust,” Furman said. “We’re trying to be that company that gives people a second chance.”

Plaudits and plans

Faber said he resisted the urge to judge the STEP Forward’s success by “looking at the numbers.”

“I value the good fit and the retention,” he said.

He also does not measure how long it takes the workshops’ participants to get a job.

“All are individuals, and some are more ready than others,” he said.

This year, STEP Forward received the Pinnacle Award from the national HR society in Washington, D.C., in recognition of the initiative’s positive impact on the local HR and business communities.

Since receiving the award, Faber has heard from HR society chapters in Rockford and Springfield that want to replicate the model.

STEP Forward recently wrapped up its fall workshops – held via Zoom – with three participants who have career dreams as diverse as robotic systems engineer, a paralegal, and nursing.

The emphasis is to “think bigger,” Faber said.

“Ex-offenders will have better success if they resist taking just anything and look for the job that’s the right fit,” he said.

Faber plans a second employer workshop for next summer to encourage local businesses to hire STEP Forward participants, familiarizing business owners with the tax credits, grants, and other funding available and having attorneys on hand to talk about legal issues.

This year, Charles received an individual achievement award from the Illinois Workforce Partnership for overcoming barriers and getting back to work. He will soon start a TMA apprenticeship to be a certified CNC machinist and has been inspired to create TikTok videos, such as “Top Jobs for Ex-Felons in 2021,” in an effort to reduce recidivism.

“I want to be a man of value,” Charles said, “a man who has knowledge in his industry and can make his company better.”

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

Eric Mayo

Felon hoping a pardon will help get jobs

2023-01-23T01:30:00.000-05:00

Felon hoping a pardon will help get jobs

Dear Mr. Mayo,

I enjoyed the new clip of those 13 in Illinois that have taken the next set with working towards showing society that people can change. I am in the process of working towards writing a pardon letter to the governor of North Carolina. For a long time I thought that I was not able to vote cause of my felony and in the last few days that I found out that I'm able to vote even as an ex-felon. Which made me happy. But the deli ma that I'm running into regularly is my background for employment. Even though my Felony is over 16years old I'm still faced with the statement of felon. I have put it on application no to the ones that have stipulated a year limitation of 5, 7, or 10 years; those that have no limitation I have to answer yes too.

When I have applied for Government and State jobs even Hospitals and Security jobs. For example I applied to a Security Company in Virginia and I was told by the officer that interview me that if it was up to him it would not matter that I had a felon cause it was 16years ago. But the company that they were contracting for didn't want any of there candidates to have a record period. Yet I have not heard anything back from that company for any work at all. Or when I have applied for a Government contract company CGI they set a formal letter to me stating that due to my background I was not selected. Even when I
applied for UPS when I was asked that question face to face; I was told by the interview that if it was up to her she would overlook my background but it would be in my best interest to not so willfully give out that information when she herself was only the middle man and someone over her would be the one to make the decision of yes or no. It makes me feel like my application is just thrown in the trash. I downloaded your book and the steps were very helpful. When it came to finding work, which I did but trying to find something better than minimum wage is like a needle in a hay stack.

Currently I will be re-enrolling back in to school online for my Associates Degree in Health Information Technician (Medical Billing and Encoding). With a degree I think that I would have a better chance as far as the skill the employer could be looking for. The one thing that hangs over my head is the background check. I think this Pardon will at least allow me a better chance of being employed with the Government and State level. With documentation of the Pardon they would at least have to give me a fighting chance. Which is something that I'm not finding even here in the Washington, DC Maryland area.

I would greatly appreciate any advice that you might have or some suggestions that you could provide to me in the pursuit of my pardon.

This is something new to me and I would like to make sure that I'm taking the right steps in this matter.

Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,

Ms. Tracie

Felon hoping a pardon will help get jobs

Hello Ms. Tracie,

Even though you are pursuing a pardon, don't abandon your job search. You should stay on your plan. Bear in mind, no matter how old your conviction is, it will always be visible to the court system, law enforcement and government agencies. This may the reason you are having trouble obtaining a government opportunity or getting a job with a company with a government contract.

I first suggest contacting your local United Way office. The United Way supports may social service agencies, some of which assist ex-offenders and felons. As I stated in my book (From Jail to a Job,) one of the most underutilized resources in many of our communities is the local One-stop Career Center. The center has resources that can help ex-offenders and felons get jobs. You can get help preparing a resume, find a list of open positions in your area and even assistance finding and paying for career training. You can even get information on getting a federal bond that could help you get hired. There are also counselors that provide one-on-one assistance. Many counselors have experience working with ex-offenders and felons.

You can find your nearest One-stop Career here:

www.servicelocator.org

The best information that I give all ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs is to apply for every job they are qualified for.

I hope this helps.

Where can ex-offenders and convicted felons find jobs

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 formerly-incarcerated people | jobs for ex-offenders | jobs that hire felons | places that hire felons | felon friendly jobs | felon friendly employers | how to get a job with criminal record | second chance jobs for felons | temp agencies that hire felons | high paying jobs for felons | List of companies that Hire Felons

Felon hoping a pardon will help get jobs

Felon wants to join the military or get a job

2023-01-20T01:30:00.000-05:00

Felon wants to join the military or get a job

I'm 20 years old and I committed a crime of burglary of the 3rd degree when I was 18 years of age I spent a year on probation which was over this past Dec. 3rd . Now as you know in my case it's vary hard to find work and people don't realize that other who've committed crimes can change for the better and my dream was to join the military and fight along side my brother and father. I've made mistakes and now I'm paying for it at a young age and I'm barely making it through life with little to no money. Do you have any advice idea or anything that can help me because I'm tired of being rejected employment and I'm tired of government officials telling me I can't do this when I know deep down inside if they made the same mistake they would like a little sympathy please write back.

-Eric L.

Felon wants to join the military or get a job

A: Hello Eric,

I'm sorry you are having so much trouble. As I tell all ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs is to develop a plan. Your first stop should be your local One-stop Career Center. One-stop Career Centers are very underutilized resources that ex-offenders and felons can use not only to gain employment, but to get vocational guidance and preparation. Also, these centers offer a long list of useful services. 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 searching

Every center is staffed with trained counselors that provide one-on-one help for job seekers. Many of them have experience helping ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs.

As stated in a previous post, you can find your nearest center here:

www.servicelocator.org

Jobs for Felons: Where can ex-offenders and convicted felons find jobs

As far a joining the military. From time to time the military will offer waivers to those with criminal backgrounds. The Army has been the most lenient in the recruitment of ex-offenders and felons. If you have your heart sent on serving, I would contact the Army recruiter to see if this can be done for you.

I hope this helps.

Felon wants to join the military or get a job

First Time Offender is Looking for a Job

2023-01-20T01:00:00.001-05:00

First Time Offender is Looking for a Job

Hello,

My name is Ida. I have been struggling for over a year now unable to find work in a small south GA town. The options are limited here and I am on the verge of becoming homeless and losing my children. I have never gone to jail but have plead out to a Felony under the first offenders act of GA for aggravated assault. (my overworked public defenders suggestion) However, I am stuck with it forever. I am still not completed with the time or fee requirements and cannot get a job anywhere. I cannot go back into what I was doing because even under a first offenders act they will not renew or reissue me an insurance agents license in GA. We have a local Wal-Mart, and a few other companies on your list however I am finding it difficult to even get to an interview. Do you have any suggestions for me.

Thank you for your time.

First Time Offender is Looking for a Job

Hello Ida,

Sorry you're having so much trouble. It can be challenging trying to find work in a small community. You may have to include some unconventional methods in your job search. First check with your probation officer. Probation officers may have information about employers who have hired their clients in the past. Secondly, if you belong long to a church, speak to the minister or pastor. Clergy persons are closely tied to the community and may have information about open positions for jobs. If nothing else, they are great references for anyone looking for work. Thirdly, contact your local city councilperson. Elected officials are connected in many ways to people who make things happen in communities. Ask if he or she knows of anyone looking for help.

Lastly, temporary employment agencies are a great way for ex-offenders and felons to get back into the job market. Make a list of temporary agencies in your area from the telephone book. Visit them and apply just
as you would any other job. Have your resume with you to leave along with your application.

I encourage everyone looking for jobs to go to their local One-stop Career Center. You will find a long list of services that can help you find work. You will also find lists of available jobs in your area. There are also
counselors who can provide one-on-one assistance. Often the counselors have experience helping people with criminal records and know of employers who may hire them. The counselors can also help you find opportunities for vocational training that could lead to a new career.

You can find you nearest One-stop Career Center here:

http://servicelocator.org

Eric Mayo

Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: Ten Steps to getting a Job with a Criminal record

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 formerly-incarcerated people | jobs for ex-offenders | jobs that hire felons | places that hire felons | felon friendly jobs | felon friendly employers | how to get a job with criminal record | second chance jobs for felons | temp agencies that hire felons | high paying jobs for felons | List of companies that Hire Felons

First Time Offender is Looking for a Job

Can Employers Refuse To Hire You Because Of Your Record?

2023-01-19T02:00:00.001-05:00

by Michael Patrick Murphy, Jr.

Posted on January 07, 2021 in Discrimination, Labor and Employment

The Criminal History Record Information Act Protects Your Rights

Under ideal circumstances, once you’ve been convicted for a crime and served your sentence, your punishment should be over. You should be able to go on to build a new life and contribute to society in a positive way.

However, for many people with a criminal record, it can be exceedingly difficult to find a job—long after they’ve paid the price for their crime.

In Pennsylvania, the Criminal History Record Information Act is designed to protect people with a criminal record from workplace and hiring discrimination. Here’s how it works.

It Limits How Employers May Base Their Decisions on Your Record

Under the Pennsylvania Criminal History Record Information Act, an employer generally can’t use your criminal record as a factor in deciding whether or not to hire you.

There are exceptions. The employer can consider your criminal record as a factor in hiring if your crime directly relates to the job you applied for. For instance, if your crime involved money laundering, a bank can legally decide not to hire you for that reason.

There are certain jobs and careers where your criminal history may legally bar you from employment. For instance, people with certain felony convictions can be barred from working with children, the elderly, or adults with special needs.

Licensure requirements may specifically prevent individuals with certain crimes on their record from working in the field as well.

However, if the employer did use your criminal history as a reason not to hire you, they have to notify you of that in writing and explain their decision. This gives you a chance to bring litigation if you feel it’s necessary.

It Introduces Consequences for Discrimination

If you believe the employer violated the law in choosing not to hire you based on your record, you have the right to sue for damages.

Possible damages include a certain amount for each violation of the law, as well as punitive damages if the action is found to be purposeful. The employer may also be on the hook for your attorney’s fees and litigation costs.

What To Do if You Feel You Were Unlawfully Passed Over

If you feel an employer unlawfully used your criminal history as a reason not to hire you, you have recourse in court.

Talk to a knowledgeable attorney. An attorney can assess the situation, determine whether your rights were violated. Contact your local legal aid office where you may qualify for free assistance.

The information provided here does not constitute legal advice. It is intended for general purposes only. If you have questions about a specific legal issue, you should speak to an attorney.

Can Employers Refuse To Hire You Because Of Your Record?

Eric Mayo

Jobs for Felons: Will my Criminal Record Hurt my chances to get Hired?

2022-12-22T07:00:00.002-05:00

Jobs for Felons: Will my Criminal Record Hurt my chances to get Hired?

Lots of men don’t have a job, and aren’t looking for one

Greetings Mr. Mayo,

Let me first thank you for the information I received from the website (Jobs for Felons: Incredible List of Companies That Hire Ex-offenders and Felons). Just by reading the details has given me a little more hope I had before finding the page.

On yesterday, I was actually offered a job by Comcast contingent on my drug screen & of course my background check. I have had so much anxiety but my faith has not allowed me to fear so much in the last few days.

My question is, should I even continue with the application? I may have a criminal record but I am certainly not a criminal. So, IF my background will stop me from getting the job, what should I do? Should I try to speak with someone in HR to prove myself worthy?

Desperate for a job,

Jobs for Felons: Will my Criminal Record Hurt my chances to get Hired?

Hello AJ,

Thank you for your kind words. You've gotten through the application process, you got an interview and did well on it. You were offered the job, but it is contingent upon the drug screening and background check. The only question I have, were you totally honest on the application if asked about having a criminal background? If you were not honest on the application, the background check will reveal your dishonesty.

I have talked to felons where less than honest when completing the application and were hired, only to be fired later when the background check was done. They were not fired for having criminal records, they were fired for falsifying the application. I hope that is not your case. I advise all of my students to be totally honest on all phases of the employment process. I know that there is often a temptation to leave certain things off of applications, but honesty is always the best policy.

If after the background check comes back and they decide not to hire you, there is little more you can do. It's their decision. At that point, I would just pick myself up and keep applying for jobs. Finding a job with a criminal record is a game of numbers. The more jobs you apply for the greater your opportunity of finding an employer who will offer you an opportunity despite your record.

Eric Mayo

Jobs for felons: Ten Steps to getting a Job... by Eric Mayo

Jobs for felons: Where Ex-offenders and Felons... by Eric Mayo

Jobs for Felons: Will my Criminal Record Hurt my chances to get Hired?

New York Casinos Could Soon Be Permitted to Hire Convicted Felons

2022-12-13T11:00:00.005-05:00

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul received legislation this week that seeks to qualify certain convicted felons to work inside the state’s commercial casinos. New York’s gaming industry is set to expand beginning next year with the consideration of downstate casinos. (Image: The New York Times)

Originally Posted on: December 8, 2022 - www.casino.org by

Devin O'Connor CasinoorgDevinO

New York casinos upstate and the two racinos downstate say they aren’t fielding enough applications from interested workers, but help could soon be on the way.

New York law prohibits anyone with a felony conviction on their criminal record from gaining employment in the state’s commercial gaming industry. State lawmakers want to terminate that condition.

In June, the New York State Legislature passed a bill that would qualify felony convicts for employment in the state’s commercial gaming industry. The legislation — Senate Bill 1443B — was introduced by state Sen. Joe Addabbo (D-Queens). Assemblyman Gary Pretlow (D-Mount Vernon) championed the statute in the Assembly.

The measure received strong bipartisan support. The Assembly voted 110 to 34 in favor of SB1443B, while the Senate approved the statute with a 56-7 vote.

Addabbo chairs the New York Senate Racing, Gaming, and Wagering Committee. Pretlow spearheads the Assembly’s Standing Committee on Racing and Wagering.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) hasn’t yet said whether she intends to sign the measure. The bill was only forwarded to the governor this week.

Criminals Can Apply

Addabbo and Pretlow’s gaming employment bill seeks to remove hiring hurdles for the state’s four upstate commercial casinos and the two downstate racino venues. The latter only have video lottery terminals and electronic table games operating. The statute, if signed by Hochul, would allow more New Yorkers to consider jobs in the gaming sector.

No casino key employee license shall be denied solely on the basis of a conviction,” SB1443B reads. The mandate qualifies former criminals only if the applicant has “affirmatively demonstrated rehabilitation.”

The New York State Gaming Commission would still retain the authority to deny a key employee license in part because of an applicant’s criminal past. The gaming employment statute also continues to prevent criminals who have been convicted of felony theft, fraud, perjury, and/or embezzlement from being allowed to work in the state commercial gaming industry.

Thousands of Jobs Forthcoming

New York is nearing the end of a 10-year moratorium that only allowed full-scale casinos to operate upstate outside of New York City’s five boroughs, the Lower Hudson Valley, and Long Island. The state’s 2013 casino act allowed for four upstate and three downstate casino properties.

Next year, New York will begin fielding full-scale casino bids from interested developers. MGM Resorts’ Empire City Casino in Yonkers and Genting’s Resorts World New York City in Queens — currently operating as racinos that are prevented from offering live dealer table games, Las Vegas-style slot machines, and retail sports betting — are the betting front-runners for two of the casino licensing opportunities.

MGM said last month it would look to hire about 2,500 additional workers in Yonkers, should its property receive one of the downstate casino licenses. Resorts World would also be expected to hire thousands of additional workers to handle the resort’s expanded footprint, should it receive a casino concession.

The third and final remaining license is where a fiercely competitive bidding process will ensue. The bidding war will include some of New York’s richest and most powerful billionaires, including Mets owner Steve Cohen, the Yankees’ Steinbrenner family, Stephen Ross, and Jay Z.

JOBS FOR FELONS: INCREDIBLE LIST OF COMPANIES THAT HIRE EX-OFFENDERS AND FELONS

Jobs for Felons

I have no problem hiring ex-offenders. But they’re being let down

2022-12-05T10:54:00.002-05:00

Originally published at TheGuardian.com, Gene Marks, @genemarks

I don’t care if a candidate for my company’s open position has a criminal record. But I do care about something more important.

My company is hoping to hire a part-time person to implement and support some of the software applications we sell. Like most small business owners, finding someone isn’t easy in this tight labor market, despite all the recent tech industry layoffs. I can’t afford to pay what some of these people earn – or were earning – in Silicon Valley and therefore my choices are limited. So, what to do?

How about hiring someone with a criminal record?

A portrait of a man with a graying beard wearing a black skull cap.

Sentenced to life for stealing $14: ‘I needed help, but was given jail’

Large corporations including JP Morgan Chase, American Airlines, AT&T and CVS have been doing it for years. State and federal prison systems offer all sorts of opportunities for employers to hire people who were formerly incarcerated. It’s not a bad bet either: studies – like this one – show that people with criminal records are no more likely to quit or be fired than anyone else.

States like Iowa and cities like Philadelphia offer cash incentives to employers who hire ex-convicts. The federal government also offers a very generous tax credit – the Work Opportunity Tax Credit – for hiring people who recently got out of prison. A number of non-profits like Honest Jobs, CareerAddict, 2ndChances4Felons and the Women’s Prison Association connect employers to prospective employees with criminal records or offer programs that help the process. The Department of Labor offers assistance through its CareerOneStop platform.

"You pay your dues and should be allowed to live your life. Most of my clients feel the same. So does the general public."

I wouldn’t have a problem filling my open position with an ex-felon or someone with a criminal record. People mess up. Some more seriously than others. But you pay your dues and should be allowed to try to live your life. Most of my clients feel the same. And so does the general public. In fact, a person’s criminal history has become so trivial that although employers can ask a prospective candidate about it during pre-employment screenings or background checks, many states do not allow that employer to discriminate based on their findings.

So no, I don’t care if a candidate for my company’s open position has a criminal record or is an ex-felon. But I do care about something that, to me, is even more important.

Can they read?

It’s one thing for all of these government programs and non-profit organizations to help ex-felons secure employment. But are they even qualified?

There are 10m open jobs in the US – hence the tight labor market – but employers are primarily looking for skilled workers. Most of my clients, like me, need workers who have knowledge. And if they don’t have the knowledge, they need to be able to learn, study and research. You can’t do this if you don’t read.

Many studies, like this one from 2003 by the Urban Institute, found that about 70% of offenders and ex-offenders are high school dropouts. About half are “functionally illiterate”, meaning they can’t read above a fourth-grade level.

Worse, statistics show that 85% of all juveniles who interface with the juvenile court system are essentially illiterate. Penal institution records show that inmates have a 16% chance of returning to prison if they receive literacy help, as opposed to 70% who receive no help. I can’t hire someone – or even teach them the skills my company requires – if they don’t have a high school level of literacy. Being illiterate is a complete non-starter.

Some of the big companies – and good for them – have the resources to help these ex-convicts learn these skills. But small businesses like mine, which employ more than half of the country’s workers, don’t have the ability to do this. So what can be done?

"Governments and non-profits should be investing in programs to get prisoners educated on the basics of reading and math."

The answer is literacy. Don’t pay me to hire ex-felons. Pay to get them literate. People in prison need to learn how to read, period. Instead of tax credits and other incentives for businesses to hire, governments and non-profits should be investing in programs to get prisoners educated on the basics of reading and math first. That’s the priority. Because once someone is at a proficient level of education, he or she can then learn the rest. But they can’t do that if they can’t read an instruction manual or study for a Microsoft certification.

That’s what I’m looking for before hiring someone out of prison. I need people who can read. Unfortunately, that’s not what the system is producing.

Jobs for Felons: Government Help For Felons Looking for Jobs

Jobs for Felons