Felony? Where to find Employment

The truth of the matter is if you have a felony, it can hinder your job search. Try to hold your head up and be encouraged, you are a survivor and you will find work!

It is true that employers may be less likely to hire you if you have a criminal record; but there are others willing to take a chance on you! If you don't want to take that route, heck, gather a group of friends together and start your own business, using the skills you already have!

Did you know there are politicians who have had a felony and go right back into politics when they get out? Marion Barry has a felony record and drug conviction, yet after his release, he was elected as DC council member and latter became Mayor again! So don’t give up, there is a good job or position out there with your name on it.

Regardless of your past, you have the power to make people believe in you; better yet, believe in yourself!

When looking for a job, you will have a greater possibility of success, if you apply for work in a field that is friendly to people with criminal backgrounds. It is also important when looking for employment, to information your potential employer that you have and record.

This will avoid you the heartbreak of getting a good job, only to have your employer discover that you have been hiding your past and be fired.

There are many employees that are open to hiring people with felonies, if they see you have the background, the potential and the attitude necessary to be successful on the job.

A reentry program, is designed to help promote successful reintegration of ex-offenders into their communities after their release. A reentry program is committed to helping people find successful employment and housing to become productive members of citizens. Some of the programs offer ex-offenders, vocational training, and help with drug rehabilitation.

More then likely, convicts are enrolled in a reentry program before their release from prison. These types of support systems are put in place in advance, to ensure that these men and women have a path way to normalcy and eventually success.

A reentry programs may be the only support for those with criminal backgrounds and both secular and faith based programs are available.

The Prisoner Reentry Initiative is supported by the United States Department of Justice. This program targets both youthful offenders as well as adults.

If you have a felony consider some of these fields when looking for work.

• The trucking industry
• Small private businesses
• Construction
• Manufacturing
• Self-employment
• Barber
• Cosmetology
• Food industry
• Hospitality
• Family business
• Customer Service

Have you ever considered working for yourself? Being self employed is a great way to regain you place in society and earns a living for yourself and your family. Also, you will not have to worry about others digging into your background or judging you for past mistakes.

What skills do you have? What can you do well that you are proud of? What can you do well that you can turn into a business? Are you good with computers? Website owners are always looking for someone to help develop their site. Can you draw? Are you good with a chainsaw, can you do a good job painting a room. These can be turned into small businesses or contract work. Are you starting to see the possibilities?

Self employment works best, when you have someone to support you until you can get the business going. But it is also something you can do on the side, while working another job as you develop a steady clientele.

Once you decide what you want to do, go online to Vista.  There you can order inexpensive business cards.  Begin to tell friends and family to look out for those needing your services.

Many people with felonies have found successful careers in the trucking industry. The industry is always hiring, and you have a chance or being hired, depending on the type of crime.  Talk to the recruiter about your background to find out the rules of that company.

Trucking is also great, if you hate to be cooped up and love to stay on the road! There are many trucking companies looking for drivers with and without experience.

You will need to check the hiring policy of the company, as many companies will hire people with a criminal record, but will require that the offense be 5 to 10 years old.

Many offer help with financing for training and getting your CDL license. Within a few months you can be on the road and earning a living.

Don't turn your nose up at working in the food industry. It is a good place to get started and money is money. If you are smart, personable and have leadership abilities, you can eventually work your way into managerial positions.

Most food industry jobs have training programs for those who are considering management. Keep in mind that the food industry is very stressful and if this is not your cup of tea, that is OK. There are other jobs to be considered.

When a person with a felony begins a job search, they need to remember that they to prepare for the interview just like everyone else. That means, to be properly attired, have a current resume and know what the employer is looking for.

The interview is where you will be able to shine and possible convince the employer to take a chance on hiring your. Employers are looking for basic skills like, the ability to communicate effectively, punctuality, and are you someone who gets along well with others.

If will look good for you, if you have been volunteering in your community or working with a church or ministry. Many times, a Pastor or spiritual leader that has worked with you will be a good reference for you to vouch for the changes you have made in you life.

As an ex-convict, you need to be prepared to discuss with you interviewer the reason for your incarceration. It is always good to share what you have learned from you time in prison and how you have been rehabilitated. Do not dwell on your past, simply explain and move on to your strengths, and skill you bring to the job!

Discuss any training or any on the job training or apprenticeship programs you have been in or any skills you have developed while you were away. It is also helpful to let the employer know one of the benefits of hiring someone with a criminal history is a tax credit provided by the government. There is also a federal bonding program that provides an employer with up to $5,000 against anything they feel may be damaged or stolen.

When going on an interview, if you are a man, always wear a dress shirt and tie and if you are a women always wear a skirt or dress with stockings or dress slacks.

You want to look as professional as possible, and give the impression that you are serious and mean business. This is true, even if going for a labor position.

Your appearance is your calling card and you will be judged instantly by your appearance whether good or bad. You know the saying, "you only have one chance to make a good first impression!"

If you do not have the attire necessary to give a good impression, call around to see what agencies of churches may have a clothing closet, where you can find appropriate clothing for free.

Never go to a job interview, without an updated resume. There are agencies like, the Department of Employment, or the JobLink, where someone can help you. They will work with you with the development and preparation of a current resume, that will highlight your skills and show you in the best light.