Having a criminal record can make it very tough for that person to find a job upon being released. Most people think it’s all over once they get a felony, so they stay in a life of crime thinking there is no way out. It won’t be as easy to get a job, but it is definitely not the end or your working career. It all depends on how you handle the situation and having a good attitude no matter what.
First of all, don’t try to hide your felony conviction when applying for a new job. This is probably the worst thing that you could possibly do when trying to get employment. It shows the employer that you are a sneaky person and are already lying to them, so why would they want to hire you? Remember, that up to 80% of jobs run a background check on potential employees before they hire them.
Consider contacting a local human service organization if available in your local are to see if they have anything to offer. These places could possibly offer you a job placement program designed to help ex-felons find a job in the workplace. Maybe go to a local church in your area and tell them your situation, many churches might be able to help you out. Church members may be willing to help you out, but you must be able to show society you’re ready to be trusted again. You can’t expect everything to just be handed to you right away.
Some companies will hire ex-felons as long as the crime committed was a non violent crime. So go to a job placement place and ask if they find jobs for ex-felons. If they do not, just be patient and keep motivated in your job search. Try going to your area’s job and family services center to get help in finding a job.
Don’t be very selective in your job search at first if you are in need of a job. The goal is to start building up credibility and work experience, so maybe you can land a better job in the future. The best thing to do after getting out of jail is to get a job right away and show everyone you changed your ways. This will make you look good on your probation and with the judges. Even if you get a low paying job at first, just be patient and stick with it because there is an opportunity to gain other skills. Learning skills on the job will give you a better work history and experience. Showcase a great job performance to rebuild trust and reliability to others.
Try to have someone you know help you find a job if possible. Try to find someone established somewhere that trusts you enough to put a good word in for you at their job. This is just a small option although, but it is worth a shot anyway. Try to find a job in a small or local company that might look away from your felony record. They may not have as strict hiring requirements unlike places that are under a corporation.
Just remember that finding a job with a felony record is not going to be easy, but you must not have negative thoughts about it. You must push forward and not be scared of rejection. Having a felony record and finding a job can be a difficult obstacle, but many people have gone on to be very successful. There are thousands of stories where ex convicts have turned their life around and became successful in the job market. Just take one step at a time and don’t be picky at first. So remember to stay focused and not to get discouraged.
