Tips for Landing a Job with a Criminal Background
When applying for any job, you are competing against several others, who, at times, may be more qualified or appropriate for the position. The competition can be rather steep, as well, with unemployment rates still around 8%. If you want to beat out the other players, you have to be the best option. What if you have a criminal background, though? Getting a job can be infinitely more difficult for someone who has a criminal record. However, it's not hopeless, and there are things you can do to land a great job.
One of the most important thing to remember, is that it's not going to be easy. It may take a few weeks, or even a few months, but if you are persistent, you will eventually get that call that you've been waiting for. Start off by being honest with yourself. What can you truly do well, and in what ways would you contribute to a companies success? What are your talents or skills? If you don't already have it, get your GED. Also, if you have the means, take a skill building class or work towards a college degree. You would be amazed in the difference it will make if you have an education, especially if it's in the field that you are applying.
Type out a resume and have numerous copies available. Make sure you have personal references who have given you permission to include them on the resume and make it as professional as possible. If you need help, don't hesitate to ask for it, as having a well put together resume can make a huge difference in your job hunting. When filling out applications, be honest, even about your criminal history. It may seem that you are setting yourself up for failure, but lying about it is a criminal offense. Also, you don't want your first impression to your possible future employer to be that you are untruthful. Make sure that the application is filled out neatly and that it is legible. If you need to, take it home and ask someone to help you fill it out.
When you are called in for that first interview, remember to be professional. Show up early, not on time. This will show the interviewee that you are serious about the job and consider it a priority. Be confident in yourself and realize that you were called for a reason. If you go in thinking that they will turn you right back out the door, remember that they already know you have a background, yet they still called. Show them that they made the right choice in giving you an opportunity. It's inevitable that you will be asked about your criminal history. Again, do not lie. Don't make up excuses for your actions, but instead be honest about your mistakes. Your employer will appreciate the honesty and the fact that you have accepted responsibility for your actions. Don't dwell on your history, but instead answer the questions as efficiently as possible, in the shortest answers as possible. If there is something about your case that may help you, then mention it, but don't drag it out. You want the emphasis to be on your abilities, not your past. If possible, direct the criminal background discussion to the end of the interview. This gives the interviewee the opportunity to know you as a person first, before focusing on your past.
Don't be discouraged by rejection. There will be other opportunities, so keep trying. In some cases, employers may be hesitant to hire you for a job that you applied for, however, they may offer you a position that is not quite as desirable. This may seem as an insult, but it is an opportunity. The employer wants to know that they can trust you with the higher paid jobs, but you have to earn that trust first. Take the lower position and work your way up the ladder.
If you have a specific set of skills, try working for yourself. Lawn work, building decks, or remodeling bathrooms are often in demand of 'freelance' workers. It's likely that even one of your friends, family members, or even neighbors is in need of a certain house project being completed. These friends and family members could also be beneficial in locating a job. Don't hesitate to ask if they know of anyone hiring, or if they need an extra pair of hands in their own business.
Most of all, remember to stay positive and keep trying. When you finally land a job, work hard and show them that you were the best choice. Even if it isn't a dream job, stay with it for a while. The longer you stay with it, the more opportunity you have for advancement, or if you decide to move on, it will look better to future employers that you worked hard and stuck with the less desirable job. With hard work and dedication, you will get to where you want to be.
