How to Find a Job If You Are a Convicted Felon
As a convicted felon, many jobs will be closed to you, including bonded positions and jobs that involve firearms or explosives. Most government jobs and licensed positions will be denied you, as well as many positions that involve being around minors. Many companies do not want to risk employing felons.
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Instructions
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If you are under a supervised release program, ask for help from your parole officer. Find out if there is an employment specialist who can help you. Sign up with the local county/state employment service.
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Consider a position as a day laborer with a temporary employment agency. Day labor includes factory, construction and warehouse work. As you learn new skills and gain the trust of your employer, a temporary job could become permanent.
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Apply for jobs at smaller companies. Small companies that cannot offer good benefits are more likely to hire felons.
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Check job listings at online job sites and in the newspaper. Don't assume that you will be turned away.
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Check the phone book for companies that fit your interests and skills. Find out if they have positions available.
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Evaluate the feasibility of going into business for yourself.
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Tips & Warnings
Be honest about your past. Explain that you are willing to work hard to prove that you are a valuable and trustworthy employee.
As time goes on, add value to what you have to offer employers. Education, skills, work experience, and good references will make you more employable for better jobs.
Network, network, network. Let people know you are looking for work. Do volunteer work. Church is another place to meet people.
If possible, work toward expunging your conviction or getting a rehabilitation certificate.
Get a free credit report. Many employers will run a credit check on you. See if there are any inaccuracies on the report.
Remember that a successful life means more than having a lot of money!
Don't give the impression of being sorry for yourself, angry, or lacking self-control.
Avoid scam artists who take your money and do not find you employment.
Avoid another conviction.
