In today's world, looking for work is hard enough when you have a clean record. If you've been in jail or had a small problem with justice, employers may not be happy to hire you. You can't control what a potential employer does, but you can behave appropriately and fine-tune your job searches. Don't give up, and you will find work even if you have a criminal record.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Applying for a Job
Step 1. Know your rights
In some cases, you don't have to tell the employer your story. You can avoid it in these situations:
- When you are not under arrest or have not been in jail.
- You are awaiting the sentence for a non-criminal trial.
- Was it a minor drug possession offense, or it's been many years since your incarceration.
- You canceled your sentence by obtaining a rehabilitation certificate or similar document.
Step 2. Try to get a crime off your criminal record
Ask your lawyer if it is possible to remove a crime from the criminal record, so that you can respond ethically and legally if they ask you if you have been in prison.
Step 3. Talk to acquaintances
Maybe a friend or relative looking for someone to hire or knows someone looking for employees. Ask him to hire you or put in a good word for you. You have a better chance of finding work if you talk to someone who knows you or is connected to you in some way.
Step 4. Exclude jobs where your criminal record would automatically eliminate you
Your criminal record may disqualify you for certain positions, especially in government, military, fiduciary positions (insurance and banking) or where you would work with children.
- If you avoid wasting time on jobs that you will never get, you can focus on real opportunities and you won't be disheartened. Evaluate your qualifications honestly; it is a fundamental step for all those looking for work.
- Do your research. Don't assume that your criminal record excludes you from getting a certain job.
Step 5. Start small and make a career
Understand that when a person sees your record, they may be reluctant to hire you for a position of responsibility. The same person, however, may also give you a chance for a lower and lower paid position.
- The biggest obstacle could be the time gap in your work history, not just your imprisonment. If you want to go back to your previous job, consider that business processes and tools may have changed since you left your position, so you should re-enter a role further down to be able to upgrade.
- Do whatever it takes to join the company. If you have to accept that lower paid job, for which you are too qualified, but in a company that offers good career opportunities in the future, then accept it. You need time to build your resume.
Step 6. Be honest about your story
You may be tempted to lie when you are asked if you have had legal problems or been in jail for the position you want, but resist the temptation.
- Most employers today do a CV check, so if you've been dishonest you won't get hired. If you were hired before the lies were discovered, then they could fire you.
- Lying about your qualifications, when you are applying for a military position, for example, is a crime.
- Make it clear when you are asked about your arrest or imprisonment during an interview. The recruiters may give you the opportunity to explain the circumstances behind the crime or alleged such. You may find that the interviewee is interested in someone who made a mistake but is motivated to get a job.
Part 2 of 3: Preparing for a Job in the Outer World
Step 1. Prepare yourself while in prison
While serving your sentence, look ahead and prepare your future after prison.
- Take advantage of the opportunities available to you while in prison to obtain a qualification or diploma.
- Good preparation is especially important if you have been away from the outside world for a long time, if you have few qualifications and experience, or if you cannot start working in the same field again (for example, if you were a banker and have been arrested for theft, probably you will no longer be able to work in a bank).
Step 2. Take advantage of the education or vocational training programs available to you after your release
Government agencies and non-profit associations offer a whole range of opportunities for job seekers, both training and active job search. The experience and skills you can develop in these programs, some of which are specific to former prisoners, can make a difference in your job search. Some agencies may also help you find work once the training is complete.
Part 3 of 3: Other Employment Possibilities
Step 1. Open your company
If you are ready to work hard and have some marketable skills or abilities, you may even be able to create opportunities for yourself.
- Open a gardening business or a cleaning company. Your only limit is your imagination. Think about what you are good at and what you like to do, and go for it.
- You'll likely need another job while starting your business, but if your criminal record has only led you to dead ends you might still give it a try.
Step 2. Consider the idea of enlisting
Some are convinced that the army takes everyone, while others believe that those who have been in prison cannot enlist. Find out about the possibilities you have.
- Depending on the type and number of crimes, and also how much time has passed since the last time, you may be able to get a clearance that will allow you to enlist. However, don't expect to get it by displaying antisocial behavior or failing to get good references from community members.
- Before enlisting, consider the potential risks of a military career, but also the benefits. The army offers training and discipline if you find it hard to motivate yourself.
- Lying to a recruiter or in the online application form for the army is a crime. Do not do it.
Advice
- Try to postpone explaining your crime to the interview. For example, if you have a serious crime on your criminal record, write "I'd rather talk about it at the interview" on the application form. This way you will not be automatically excluded. The more people get to know you, the more likely you are to like it and consider the idea of hiring you instead of blocking you only on the basis of some prejudice.
- Don't get discouraged. You will find work. And remember, when you're looking for a job, the batting average doesn't matter. All you need is a decent job. If you find it on the 51st try, the previous 50 refusals don't count. Also remember that a person who considers nothing other than your criminal record is probably someone you would not like to work for.
- Your defense attorney could be an excellent reference and help. He may have friends who can help you open doors. They can also give you job and career advice. Take advantage of them.
- If you have been unfairly discriminated against because of your criminal record, consult a lawyer.
Warnings
- If you've just gotten out of jail, it might be tiring to look for work, but you can't afford to get discouraged. Studies have shown that those who find work within a year of their release are more likely to stay out of trouble than those who remain unemployed.
- Don't resort to illegal activities, no matter how tough the circumstances are. Work hard and take whatever job is available, but don't take the risk of going back to jail.
