Getting a job is hard. Getting a job with a criminal record is definitely harder. Having a criminal record is no reason to give up hope.  There are felons being hired everyday.  Those who know what to do get hired.  Those that don’t will have a tougher time.  Ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs will have greater success by developing a plan using these important steps.

Dress like a professional!

There is no substitute for a powerful first impression.   If ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs want to be treated like professionals, they ought to look like professionals. A fact of life is that most of us will be judged at least partially, by the way we look.  Meeting someone for the first time, you should look as professional as possible.  A nice suit, a light colored shirt, a tie and nicely shined pair of shoes wold do the trick.  At the very least, you should have a light colored shirt, dark slacks, a tie and once again shined shoes.  You may not own clothes like these, but you should do your best to get them.  You should look like someone who is serious about getting hired.  You will never get a second chance to make a first impression.

Get a personal contact card

Nothing will set you apart from the competition like having your own contact card! A professionally done contact card will leave everyone you meet with a powerful, professional, lasting impression.  Your card should include your name, address, telephone number and email address.  If you have a particular profession or skill, it should also be on the card.  Your local printer can help you put one together. You will be amazed just how affordable this powerful little tool can be.  If you have a computer. you can make your own.  You can get card paper from Staples or Office Depot and you can make your own professional looking card.



Always be honest

I encourage ex-offenders and felons to always be honest when searching for jobs especially on applications and interviews. There is often a temptation to lie about criminal pasts.  I have know many people who have not been honest on applications and gotten jobs, only to get fired later when background checks are done.  It is always better to be honest.  In this high-tech computer age, it is relatively easy to do a background check on virtually anyone, so don’t count on your record not being found.

If you are asked about criminal records on interviews, you should briefly speak about it but focus on what you have learned and why having a job and working hard is important.

Use resumes and cover letters to get jobs

Ex-offenders and felons will have more success getting hired if they can get their resumes into the hands of people who can hire them.  Sending a resume with a cover letter will give them a huge advantage.  A well written cover letter will introduce you and help you ask for an interview in a professional way.  Often when ex-offenders and felons inquire about jobs this way, the question of criminal records never comes up.  If you don’t know much about writing a cover letter, find someone who does and get it done properly.

Build a good network

Most people get jobs through people they know. Who you know is often just as important as what you know. Finding job leads from people you know is called networking and it is without question the single most powerful way to get a job. Many jobs are never advertised because they are often filled by personal referrals. In fact, employers would rather hire somebody referred to them instead of looking through piles of resumes and applications.

Contact as many people as you can think of and ask if they know of anyone who is hiring. Ask for the person who is in charge of hiring and try to get an application or try to arrange for an interview.  The more applications you can get to people in charge, the greater your chances to get a job.

Build a list of good references

A lot of applications ask for personal or professional references. A reference is someone who would say something positive about you or your work performance. Past teachers, previous employers, ministers, and other prominent members of your community would all be great references. Please ask people if they would be a reference for you before you list them.  If they agree, get their addresses, phone numbers, email addresses or other contact information.

Always be on time!


You should always plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before all interviews and other appointments. Arriving early will allow you to relax and make any final preparations.  You must know exactly how long it would take to get to the interview location.  If you don’t know, make a dry run to the location a day or so before to gauge your travel time.  There is absolutely no excuse for ever being late.

Practice and prepare!

Getting a job with a criminal record will depend on how well you prepare. Practice everything on your job search from filling out applications, shaking hands, body language and interviewing.

Like anything else, interviewing well will take practice. The more you practice, the better you will get.  Practice your body language in front of a mirror. Predict the interviewer’s questions and practice answering them until they sound natural. Don’t memorize your answers but practice making them complete thoughts in your own words.

Get friends and family members to take turns being the interviewer.  Practice the whole interview from beginning to end. If  possible, make video recordings of your practice interviews so you can see and hear your responses to questions and your use of grammar and body language.  The more practice you get, the better you will get at everything.

Get ready to work hard!


Ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs must realize that they are playing a game of numbers. More job leads mean more interviews. More interviews mean more opportunities to get hired.  It’s that simple. Getting enough quality jobs leads will result in a job .

Finding a job with a criminal record will require a huge commitment in time and effort. Put your time in making phone calls, filling out applications and digging for leads. Effort in practicing, and preparation will have to go with putting the time in.  Every minute you take off leaves an opening for someone else to get a job instead of you.

There are ex-offenders and felons getting jobs everyday.  Work hard and prepare well and you could be one of them!

You can be bonded free of charge!


The federal government offers felons free bonding.  When you get an interview you can tell the employer that you can get bonded at no charge to you or the employer.  If the employer has concerns about you being an honest employer, you can say “I can be bonded.”  A bond insures the employer from loss of money, merchandise or services due to employee dishonesty.  This may be the difference between getting a job or not getting a job.  You should speak to your state’s department of labor representative at your local one stop career center.

You can find out more about the Federal Bonding Program and how it helps ex-offenders and felons get jobs here:

Federal Bonding Program

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 (2018)

Jobs for Felons: Five Places Felons Can Find Jobs – Get a Job Quickly!

companies hire felons | companies that hire felons | Companies that hire ex-offenders | Employers that hire ex-offenders | employers that hire felons | Jobs for felons | jobs for ex-offenders | jobs that hire felons | places that hire felons | felon friendly jobs | felon friendly employers | how to get a job with criminal record | second chance jobs for felons | temp agencies that hire felons | high paying jobs for felons | Federal Bonding Program

Ex-offenders and Felons can get Jobs

The post Ex-offenders and Felons can get Jobs appeared first on Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons - Help for Ex-offenders and Felons Looking for Jobs.

Jobs for Felons: Five Places Felons Can Find Jobs – How to get a job with a felony

Felons can get jobs quickly in Five Places.

Temporary Agencies – Temporary employment is a great way for ex-offenders and felons to quickly get jobs. Often temporary jobs turn into permanent employment.

Large Retailers – Large retailers often need people for warehouse work provided that there is no conviction for theft, robbery etc.

Property Managers – Managers of large apartment complexes need dependable people to move furniture, paint, remove debris left by moving tenants etc.

Moving Companies, Furniture & Appliance Retailers – There is no substitute for people who can move heavy things. There is always a market for anyone who can get this tough job done and a record probably won’t get in the way.

Restaurants – Restaurant owners will hire anyone who can keep a busy kitchen running. Many ex-offenders and felons have kitchen skills that can land them a job.

Check out this list of companies that hire ex-offenders and felons: https://www.jailtojob.com/companies-hire-felons.html

There are hundreds of companies on this list that offer ex-offenders and felons a fair chance at getting hired. This is great to know when you are trying to get a job with a criminal record.

This video will show you exactly how to make this list work for you: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sf02b_CKRV0

After you watch this video, check out my blog, How Felons can Get Jobs: https://www.howfelonscangetjobs.com/

On this blog, I have answered hundreds of questions from ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs. I’m sure you will find some valuable information that could help you quickly land a job.

companies hire felons | companies that hire felons | Companies that hire ex-offenders | Employers that hire ex-offenders | employers that hire felons | Jobs for felons | jobs for ex-offenders | jobs that hire felons | places that hire felons | felon friendly jobs | felon friendly employers | how to get a job with criminal record | second chance jobs for felons | temp agencies that hire felons | high paying jobs for felons

The post Jobs for Felons: Five Places Felons Can Find Jobs – Get a Job Quickly! appeared first on Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons - Help for Ex-offenders and Felons Looking for Jobs.

I am writing on behalf of my husband Harry. We live in Cockeysville, Md. My husband has been home for about 2 1/2 years now. Since he has been home, he has had two security job at nite clubs, but not enough hours or pay. He has enjoyed that field of work, but he also wanted better for himself and our family. He has been trying to drive for tow truck, taxi cabs, and any other jobs, but once they see his record, its all down hill from there… DENIED!

Today really touch me , because he went to go get his finger prints done, get his driving record pull(which is great!) and they seen his background record, then they told him he would need to get all of us papers together then they would have a meeting about him, to see if they agree on letting him drive a cab… His heart drop, since he has gotten out all he wanted to do is to prove his is not a failure, that he has made a mistake in life, paid for it and now he wants to move on from it..

But it seems as if in this state they don’t want to forgive, if GOD can why not man… He has a nice resume, 3-4 different ones, he has a suit and tie and nice shoes, clean cut, but once they see that background none of that matters..

He just want something better,, and to bring income in the house, my son is 16 and has a job, do you know how much that hurts my husband him being the man of the house….

HELP!

Nancy

Jobs for Felons: My Husband is a Felon and needs a Job

Hello Nancy,

It’s great that you want to help your husband. Two things you and every felon has to understand. Number one, don’t expect sympathy, and number two, finding a job even without a felony is hard..

Too many ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs take it personal when they don’t get jobs they apply for. They assume that the employer has a bias against people with criminal records. Some may and some may not. An employer has a responsibility to hire the best person available. They will also hire a person who presents few problems. Often times if two applicants have similar qualifications and one is a felon, the non-felon will get the job. Finding a job, unfortunately, is not an exact science. Your husband may look the part, dress the part and say all of the right things and still not get hired. It happens to people without records too. Ex-offenders and felons must apply for every job they feel they qualify for. Find a job is a numbers game. The more jobs he applies for, the more interviews he gets the greater the opportunity to find an employer who will not hold his criminal record against him. The challenge is finding as many quality leads as possible. Frequent readers of by blog know that my first suggestion for every felon I meet is to visit your local One-stop Career Center. There your husband will find a ling list of resources that can help him in his job search including lists of open positions in your area. There are also employment counselors that may know of employers that may hire a felon.

The nearest you is:

Baltimore County Workforce Development Center at Hunt Valley

11101 McCormick Road
Hunt Valley, MD 21031

The Baltimore County Workforce Development Centers, a partnership with local workforce development agencies providing employment and training services to job seekers and businesses. Baltimore County Workforce Development Centers strive to provide customer driven workforce services for all job-seeking customers. We provide a variety of employment and support resources to assist individuals in achieving their employment goals and encourage lifelong learning. The Centers provide information and resources for the economic advancement of any job seeker in need of services.

Meet with workforce development professionals to discuss job search strategies, employment referral and placement and other workforce services. Access copiers, faxes and phones for use in your job search. Use videos, books and workshops on job search topics. Use computers equipped with Microsoft Office, Internet access and laser printers for your job search activities. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

Take a look at the video below to get more ideas

Are you an ex-offender or felon who has a question about finding a job with a criminal record? The right answer could land you a job. You could have your question answered right here. Email your question to: BelievePublications@comcast.net.

If you are really serious about getting a job or helping someone you really care about check out this link: From Jail to a Job

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: My Husband is a Felon and needs a Job

The post Jobs for Felons: My Husband is a Felon and needs a Job appeared first on Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons - Help for Ex-offenders and Felons Looking for Jobs.

Ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs often overlook a very good source of employers who will hire them. Temporary agencies offer excellent opportunities for felons to get hired.

I work with felons everyday and I teach them that there is a definite strategy to using temporary agencies to get jobs. There are temporary employment agencies that service pretty much any industry you can think of. There are agencies that service the medical field, food service, manufacturing, clerical and other areas.

To get started, here are several nation-wide agencies that have been known to give felons second chance employment opportunities. You can look them up to find out the best way to apply.

Adecco USA

AeroTek

Elite Staffing

Kelly Services

Labor Ready

Manpower

Net-Temps

Pride Staff

Spherion

These national agencies are a good start but it is my experience that smaller local agencies offer the best opportunities for ex-offenders and felons to get hired. Often the large agencies have internal policies that limit the hiring of people with criminal records. Applying to smaller agencies will allow felons the to meet hiring managers who can hire the person they feel is best for the job.

Make a list of temporary agencies in your area from local listings and apply to each one of them just as you would any other job. Have plenty of resumes to leave along with your application.

Once the interviews come, let the interviewer know that you can be bonded by the Federal Bonding Program. The Federal Bonding Program encourages businesses to hire ex-offenders and felons by providing insurance policies that protect against employee theft or dishonesty. You can find out more about the Federal Bonding Program and how it can help you get a job at this website:

www.bonds4jobs.com

You can also find a huge list of other companies that hire felons at the link below:

If you get a chance please stop by my blog How Felons Can Get Jobs. On my blog, I have answered hundreds of questions from felons looking for jobs. You will also find a link to a list of companies that hire ex-offenders and felons. You can even ask me a question. You can also search previous questions I have answered. Chances are I have already answered a question similar to yours. You will find my blog here:

If you get a chance please stop by my blog How Felons Can Get Jobs. On my blog, I have answered hundreds of questions from felons looking for jobs. You will also find a link to a list of companies that hire ex-offenders and felons. You can even ask me a question. You can also search previous questions I have answered. Chances are I have already answered a question similar to yours. You will find my blog here:

I also can be found here:

companies hire felons | companies that hire felons | Companies that hire ex-offenders | Employers that hire ex-offenders | employers that hire felons | Jobs for felons | jobs for ex-offenders | jobs that hire felons | places that hire felons | felon friendly jobs | felon friendly employers | how to get a job with criminal record | second chance jobs for felons | temp agencies that hire felons | high paying jobs for felons

The post Temp Agencies Hire Felons appeared first on Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons - Help for Ex-offenders and Felons Looking for Jobs.

Ex-offenders and felons really face a tough challenge when it comes to finding jobs, especially in this tough economy. Even though times are tough, they can get hired. Here are some helpful hints that can make this tough job just a bit easier.

Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: Helpful Hints

Know what is in your Criminal Record

Somewhere during the job search, someone is going to ask if you have a criminal record. I advise my students to be completely honest when asked about their criminal records. Ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs should have accurate records of their criminal convictions. If you have a probation or parole officer, he/she can help you get a copy of your record. The most accurate records can be found in the FBI database. You can get a copy of this by contacting the FBI directly

In order to obtain a transcript of your FBI record for personal, employment, the FBI requires the following:

1) A signed written request with a brief explanation for the request and your mailing address.
2) Each request must contain two completed applicant fingerprint cards with all of the applicant’s personal information (name, date of birth, place of birth, etc.) and a current set of 10 rolled fingerprints and eight flat finger impressions. Fingerprints and impressions must be taken by a local law enforcement agency.
3) An $18.00 fee in U.S. currency by certified check or money order payable to the United States Treasury.

This information is made available by U.S. Freedom of Information Act.

FBI
CJIS Division
ATTN: SCU, MOD.D-2
1000 Custer Hollow Road
Clarksburg, WV 26303

For more information, you may contact the FBI at 304-625-3878

Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: Criminal Backgrounds and your Rights

Find out if your Record can be Cleaned Up

Find out if any convictions on your record can be sealed or expunged. The fact is, NO CRIMINAL RECORD CAN BE ERASED OR REMOVED. If someone tells you that they can get your record erased, do not believe them. There are legal procedures available that can have certain convictions and charges concealed from public view making your record easier to work with. Your criminal record, even if concealed, will always be accessible to all government agencies, court systems and law enforcement authorities.

There are attorneys who make their livings by using these processes but, you will be able to get this done for little or no money. I advise to all of my students to contact their local legal aid offices. You will be able to determine if expungement or sealing is obtainable in your state and what can be done about your record. If it is an alternative for you, you will be able to get help getting it done for little or no money.

Find Quality Job Leads

Do you know what type of job you’re looking for? Do you know where open jobs are? There are a lot of methods to discover where jobs are.

1. Networking – Networking is simply talking to people you already know to find out if they know about any open positions. This is how most people find their jobs and is the single most powerful method of finding about open jobs.

2. State Job Services – State supported job services or One-stop Career Centers have access to current job openings and other valuable services that can help you get a job. You can find the nearest One-stop Career Center here:

www.service locator.org

3. Temporary Employment Agencies – Employers use temporary services when they require help right away for a certain amount of time. A temporary agency could have you working in a very short time. Often temporary assignments become permanent jobs. Temporary agencies provide labor to a wide array of businesses like offices, restaurants, hotels, building companies and even the medical field. Whatever type of work you do, you can find a temporary agency that is looking for employees.

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 and online job boards such as Monster.com, Jobs.com and Indeed.com. Getting a copy of the local newspaper is no longer necessary. You can find help wanted listings by category on the website of your local newspaper.

Regrettably, not all job areas are open to ex-offenders and ex-felons and you may not get the job you are looking for right away. You may have to start at the bottom and work your way up.

Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: How to find Job Leads

Get a Resume

A resume is one of the most important tools necessary when applying for a job. No matter how much experience you have or what your qualifications are, a well written resume is a must. If you do not have a resume, you must get one. If you don’t know how to write one, get help from someone who has experience writing them. You may get help from the One-stop career center.

Ex-offenders and Felons must use Resumes to get Jobs

Practice Interview Skills

Good interviewing skills are a must for anyone looking for a job, but more so for ex-offenders and felons. More than likely, difficult questions are going to come and how you handle them will be the difference between getting hired and not. Make a list of the most difficult questions you can think of and practice answering them until you are comfortable. Get a friend and practice your interview skills and answering difficult questions. Like anything else, practice is the key to becoming good at interviewing.

Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: How to answer questions on criminal background checks

Are you an ex-offender or felon who has a question about finding a job with a criminal record? You could have your question answered right here. Email your question to: BelievePublications@comcast.net.

Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: Helpful Hints

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

The post Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: Helpful Hints appeared first on Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons - Help for Ex-offenders and Felons Looking for Jobs.

Finding a job for ex-offenders and felons is becoming increasingly more difficult. A down economy has made a tough job even more tough for those with criminal records. Many ex-offenders and felons desperate for legitimate income are turning to options advertised on the internet as work-at-home opportunities. Often these companies offer easy money working at home.  To felons, this may seem like a viable option after being rejected for traditional employment.

There are legitimate work-at-home companies on the internet and there are some that are outright scams preying on innocent opportunity seekers or people trying hard just to make ends meet.

Types of Work at Home Scams

* Assembly Jobs: Involves money to purchase instructions and materials to produce crafts and signs for a company. After putting together the products, the company may refuse to buy the products because it doesn’t meet their standards or any other reason.

* Multi-Level Marketing (MLM): Require you to recruit new people to sell a scammer’s products or services. You often end up making close to nothing after everything is done.

* Stuffing Envelopes: This scam offers the opportunity to make $3 or $4 per envelope for every envelope stuffed. If you apply, you may only end up receiving promotional material asking you to buy instructions on how to get rich quick. The instruction will show you how to post similar job ads for stuffing envelopes.

* Online Businesses: Will claim to show you how to start your own online business and start making money fast as a mystery shopper or some other position. If you apply you’ll be asked to buy a useless guide to work-at-home jobs.

* Processing Claims: Deceives you into thinking that you can make hundreds of dollars a week by processing claims for some unnamed insurance company

There are red flags that tell you that a work at home offer is probably a scam

• The email address used looks like a private email like Yahoo, Hotmail or Gmail.
• A request for your bank or credit card information.
• A request for a copy of your birth certificate, driver’s license or other identifying documents.
• A request for your Social Security Number
• A request for you to transfer funds.

You can get more information on avoiding online job scams here:

https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0243-job-scams

8 Tell-Tale Signs of a Job Scam

How to Avoid Work From Home Scams (ONLINE SCAMS TO WATCH OUT FOR!)

Ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs: Avoid online job scams

Where can ex-offenders and convicted felons find jobs

Are you an ex-offender or felon who has a question about finding a job with a criminal record? You could have your question answered right here. Email your question to: BelievePublications@comcast.net.

www.howfelonscangetjobs.com

Ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs: Avoid online job scams

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

The post Ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs: Avoid online job scams appeared first on Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons - Help for Ex-offenders and Felons Looking for Jobs.

Can Expungement Help a Felon Get a Job?  Expungement can help felons get jobs.

You can even get free expungement of criminal records. I get this question a lot from felons looking for jobs. There are people who believe that expungement will erase criminal records. I have even seen advertisements from attorneys claiming that they can erase criminal records. Before you spend any money, lets look at what expungement means.

The exact meaning of Expungement will vary from state to state but generally, Expungement is a process ordered by a court that legal record of an arrest or a criminal conviction is hidden from public view. Once the court orders a record expunged, it will not show up on a criminal background check. Also once a record is expunged, you can legally deny it. For example, if you have only one conviction and it is expunged, you can answer “no” if an employer asked have you been convicted of a crime. It important to know that if you have multiple convictions, they must be expunged separately.

Another important thing to know is, that even though expungement hides arrests and convictions from public view, these records will always be available to government, law enforcement and court systems.

I am not an attorney and this is simply general information. To get more information about expungement in your state, you should speak to a qualified legal professional with experience in this area. I suggest contacting your local legal aid office. There you can get an explanation of how the expungement process works in your state and how it can impact your ability to get a job. As was stated before, expungement is a legal process which you should never attempt alone. You can also get help getting the process started. You may qualify for low cost or even free assistance with the expungement process.

If you get a chance please stop by my blog:  How Felons Can Get Jobs. On my blog, I have answered hundreds of questions from felons looking for jobs. You will also find a link to a list of companies that hire ex-offenders and felons. You can even ask me a question. You can also search previous questions I have answered. Chances are I have already answered a question similar to yours.

You will find my blog here: https://www.howfelonscangetjobs.com

companies hire felons | companies that hire felons | Companies that hire ex-offenders | Employers that hire ex-offenders | employers that hire felons | Jobs for felons | jobs for ex-offenders | jobs that hire felons | places that hire felons | felon friendly jobs | felon friendly employers | how to get a job with criminal record | second chance jobs for felons | temp agencies that hire felons | high paying jobs for felons

Can Expungement Help a Felon Get a Job

The post Can Expungement Help a Felon Get a Job appeared first on Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons - Help for Ex-offenders and Felons Looking for Jobs.

Originally published at Forbes.com, by Ashley Stahl

I love a good job hunt, but I’ll admit: it’s an arduous process.

You can spend hours scrolling through job posts and researching companies before even landing an interview with a hiring manager. Then, the real games begin. You prepare and execute. You highlight your strengths, explain your weaknesses, ask the right questions and do your best to leave a good impression.

And most of the time, it’s all for naught. According to a 2018 survey done from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobseekers with at least one interview in the last two months have only a 37% chance of receiving a job offer. Of the people that do escape the tunnel of cover letters and phone interviews with a job offer in hand, some will leave learning the salary is too low, the commute too long or the hours too rigid… And so, the process begins again.

If the job hunt isn’t a series of trials and errors, then I don’t know what is. Interviews don’t pan out, emails go unanswered, and the ego takes some punches along the way.

But I can tell you this: get through the yuckiness of it all and things can turn out great. The best job hunts take you through a few obstacles. As a career coach, I’ve just about seen them all. The good news is there are ways you can get around them.

When the position is not right for you

The job hunt takes you down a two-way street. You want to show a company that your skills match their needs, but you also want to determine whether they can meet yours. As you gather more information about what the position entails, you’ll develop a better idea of whether it fits your requirements. The sooner you determine this, the better, but sometimes you won’t know until after you’re offered an interview or, in some cases, during the interview.

Hiring managers appreciate honesty, especially when it saves them time. If you’re certain you don’t want the position, politely decline the interview. Keep your message vague and leave room for future opportunities by thanking the company for their time and consideration. If you like the company but don’t like the role, consider asking if they have any other positions available in an area that matches your core skill set – the company might latch onto your enthusiasm and find a spot for you in a different department.

When the interview process takes too long

If things go a little too well, you may find yourself with a job offer from one company while waiting on a response from another. This puts you in a tough position. Companies looking to fill a role as soon as possible may not give you extra time to make a decision. On the other hand, if you’re waiting to hear back from a company you love, cutting the job hunt early for a previous offer may hold you back from the position you really want.

It’s important to remember that companies tend to want to hire new candidates as quickly as possible. Filling an open position costs employers an average of $4,129 and takes 42 days – time and money they could save by shortening their hiring process. If a company has already expressed their interest by offering you a job interview, explain the situation and communicate your interest to work for them over your other options. You can’t expect them to upend their entire hiring just to accommodate your situation, but if you’re a favored candidate, they may be willing to make some changes. At the very least, reach out with an email or phone call and ask if there’s a typical time frame when you can expect to hear back.

When you get ghosted

Whether it comes from a Tinder date or a hiring manager, getting ghosted leaves you in an ambiguous and awkward situation. As hard as it can be to determine the next right step, don’t waste your energy ruminating. If the hiring manager didn’t give you a timeline for a response, consider following up with an email or phone call a week later.

That being said, it’s normal to not receive a response for a couple weeks after an interview. On average, a company takes 24 business days to respond, though this varies by industry. Companies in tech and manufacturing may give candidates a job offer in as few as 16 business days, while companies in the hospitality and recreational industry generally take around 40 days before giving a response.

If you still don’t get a response after a month, consider other ways to approach the company. Express your interest to employees by asking to set up informational interviews. Ask what their company looks for in a new hire, as this may lead to conversations and connections that get your foot in the door. In particular, try to network with people you find who have associations with you, such as the same college alma mater; this increases the likelihood that your cold networking will get a response.

If the company seems unresponsive from multiple angles, then it’s time to move on. Think about it. Do you really want to work at a company with leadership or human resources that don’t have the time or consideration to respond to your inquiries?

When you don’t know the salary

Finally, there’s a growing demand in the workforce for more salary transparency. According to a study by Adzuna, 28% of people cite a lack of salary transparency as their biggest frustration while searching for jobs. It’s not difficult to understand why. According to the same study, 54% of job seekers declined a job-offer when they found out the salary.

No one wants to spend hours applying for jobs that don’t even fall within their needed range of compensation. But with just 3% of companies transparent about their salaries, odds are you’ll have to go into a few interviews without much information on the compensation range. Limit your frustration in advance by researching the typical pay range for that particular position. Websites like Glassdoor and Salary.com give estimates for jobs based on position, location, and company and can provide a ballpark range of an expected salary.

Every job hunt has its obstacles. The key is to pivot — and then keep going.

Why You’re Not Hearing Back After You Apply For A Job / Don’t Hear Back After Submitting Application

The post Applying For Jobs And Not Hearing Back? Here’s What To Do About It appeared first on Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons - Help for Ex-offenders and Felons Looking for Jobs.

Q: Hello,

My name is Tyrell. I live in Illinois and I have a felony for a having a gun in 2006 I never did time. I just got 2 yrs probation that I was released from early because I didn’t get in anymore trouble. I can’t find a job and I really need help. I have a family to take care of and its getting harder and harder do you know of anywhere that will hire me?

Thanks for your time

I have one felony and can’t find a job

A: Hello Tyrell,

I’m sorry you are having so much trouble.  Firstly, I would suggest ex-offenders and felons apply employment at retail chains. This time of year, retail chains hire for the busy holiday season. This may help in the short term. You could also apply at supermarkets. They are always looking for night stocking help.  There always seems to be a shortage of people to work on the overnight crew.

I tell every person with a criminal record that finding a job will not be easy.  The best way to find a job for you and everyone else is to apply for every job you feel qualified for.  The more jobs you apply for the greater your chance to get an interview.  The more interviews you get, the greater your opportunities to get hired.  I have a page where you can search for open jobs in your area.  Once again, apply for every job you are qualified for.  There is also a huge (and getting bigger,) list of companies that hire felons.  There are also companies that have pledged to use fair hiring practices.  You will find the list here:  Companies that Hire Felons

For the longer term you should look into getting your one felony downgraded or even sealed. To get more information on this process, check out the Cabrini Green Legal Aid. You may get assistance with this at little or no cost. The website is, https://www.cgla.net/services-guidelines.

They may also have contact with employers who hire ex-offenders and felons.

I hope this helps.

5 Places Felons Can Find Jobs Today

Where can ex-offenders and convicted felons find jobs?

Jobs for felons: Ten Simple Steps to Getting a Job with a Criminal Record

Jobs for Felons: Felons can get jobs using the Federal Bonding Program

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

If you are really serious about getting hired with a criminal record or helping someone you care about, visit

www.JailtoJob.com

I have one felony and can’t find a job

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

The post I have one felony and can’t find a job appeared first on Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons - Help for Ex-offenders and Felons Looking for Jobs.

Q: Hi,

I came across your email address while reading on a blog about how felons can get jobs. I was wondering if you could offer any advice to me since you have some experience helping individuals with felonies get employed. I am a senior graduating from a prestigious university in pharmaceutical sciences. My GPA is above 3.0, I have many references in industry, lab, and even state representatives and senators. I have work experience in industrial, retail and synthetic pharmacy but no one is willing to give me a chance. Various different companies have flown me to their respective locations to have a second or third interview along with a tour of the plant. However, they will not offer me jobs because of my background. One company actually gave me an offer and soon after retracted it.

I got a class D felony for theft in 2005 while I was in high school. The situation that led to it was very silly but I ended up with a felony nonetheless. If you have any idea how I can move forward please let me know. I have been trying to get advice from many different people but have not been successful finding a job. I will be graduating soon and my student loans will be due so the pressure is building up. Please let me know if you can help. I’d greatly appreciate it.

Thanks,

Sal

Ex-offenders and felons should be honest when looking for jobs

A: Hello Sal,

Many ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs have worked hard to overcome some legal issues that happened some time ago. With all of their hard work, some still find their convictions holding them back from getting jobs. The one thing I suggest to all ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs is to be honest. If you find that an application is asking about criminal convictions, give the information that the application asks for. Some have been taught to respond to the “Have you been convicted…..” question with the response “will explain at interview.” In most cases the interview will never come because the application is incomplete – you did not answer the question. In your case, you have only one conviction. You must include the following information:

Name of the conviction, date, location, and the disposition (time served, fine and/or probation.) It might look like this:

Theft 8/12/05 Houston, Probation Served (18 mos.)

Many ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs choose not to include their convictions on their applications because they feel it may keep them from getting an interview. I have spoken with ex-offenders and felons who have lied on applications and gotten jobs, only to lose them later when background checks were done. There were not let go for having convictions, rather they were let go for not disclosing information.

In your case, perhaps you should apply for jobs using your resume and well written cover letters. Often, applying for jobs this way, you conviction may never come up. If it does, I always suggest that you be completely honest.

Answer the question without going into detail. Mention the amount of time that has gone by and what you have learned from your experience. Also talk about the progress you have made. Shift the conversation to the opportunities you have had to improve yourself. You may even answer this way:

I’m glad you asked because I want you to feel comfortable about hiring me. I’ve done some things that I’m not proud of. I had to learn the hard way that there are no shortcuts in life. If I’m going to be successful it’s going to take a lot of hard work. I started working on that when I was away. I have been working very hard to turn things around. I’m just looking for a chance.

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

Ex-offenders and felons should be honest when looking for 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 Ex-offenders | Jobs That Hire Felons | Places That Hire Felons | Felon Friendly Jobs | Felon Friendly Employers | Jobs for Felons | Jobs For People That Have Felonies | Jobs For People With A Criminal Record

Eric Mayo

The post Ex-offenders and felons should be honest when looking for jobs appeared first on Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons - Help for Ex-offenders and Felons Looking for Jobs.