Job Search After Release From Prison

First you should know YOU ARE NOT ALONE. According to The national Employment Law Project 1 in 3 American adults have a criminal record.

That is over 64 million people dealing with the challenges of finding employment after going through the criminal justice system. While finding a job is not easy it can be done and the most important thing is to realize millions of people have succeeded and so can you. It just takes persistence. A little luck doesn’t hurt either, but being determined is the key to getting where you want to be.

BE ACTIVE

Hiring managers recommend applicants be honest about any criminal record but emphasize what they have learned and steps they have taken to improve themselves. We all make mistakes, but what we do after those mistakes is important. Hiring managers also recommended applicants build their skills and resumes by doing volunteer work, taking classes or vocational training, or even starting their own business no matter how small. Regardless of background, these types of actions show responsibility, desire to improve, and ability to commit to something.

Even if finding stable employment is difficult, you should always look for opportunities to add to your skills and resume. Staying active will show prospective employers that you have a strong work ethic and are a determined person. Some options might be volunteering your services at a non profit. Even if you are not paid it still is a job reference and looks good on your resume. You also make connections with people who might aid in your attempt at reentry into the job market. For example, one person I know volunteered helping the city with cleaning up parks and doing minor maintenance. This led to a part time then full time job at the city ice arena where he learned to operate and maintain a zamboni ice maintenance machine and operate and maintain refrigeration systems.

Starting your own business no matter how small also is a great way to gain references and add to your resume. Again, it shows prospective employers that you are active, have determination, are self motivated.

INTERVIEWS

When interviewing for a job, if the interviewer asks about your criminal record, don’t dwell on it but make sure to emphasize what you have learned and how you are becoming a better person. Also, make sure to bring attention to your skills, positive characteristics, and why you would make a great employee.

Also, never forget how important a first impression is. A neat, professional appearance, and with trimmed and well styled hair always help. Unless you are interviewing to be a game show host, most employers want to hire people who will not be a visual distraction. We can save that for Saturday night at the club, the football game, or my cousin’s birthday party.

FOLLOW UP

Lastly, don’t forget to follow up. A lot of job seekers forget this step and you would be surprised how often this makes a difference especially when the person making the hiring decision is trying to decide between 2 people to hire for that 1 position. Whether it is after submitting a resume, submitting a job application, or an interview, it is a good idea to call, email, or send a letter stating your desire to work at the organization or company. After an interview you should also thank them for the opportunity to interview and their time. One follow up after each step is good. Calling or emailing a bunch of times becomes annoying and will hurt any future chances. You never know when you just missed being hired but the next opening may be 6 months later and will be offered to you.

Remember, you are not alone, stay active, and determined. You CAN succeed!!!