How to Get Work With a History of Incarceration

A history of incarceration can make finding employment difficult, but it doesn't make it impossible. Once you have paid your debt to society, you will have to show prospective employers that you have learned from your mistakes and that you are willing to do what it takes to be a good employee. The length of time since your incarceration, as well as the type of crime for which you were incarcerated, will play a part in whether an employer is willing to give you a chance.

Instructions

1. Get your criminal record expunged if possible. When your record is expunged, the conviction that landed you in jail won't appear on your criminal record. Each state has its own guidelines for this process, so you will need to contact your attorney or probation/parole officer for information in your area.

2. Obtain proof of your rehabilitation efforts. If you were on probation or parole after your incarceration or if you participated in any rehabilitation programs while you were incarcerated, get proof of successful completion. Some employers will consider these efforts during the interview and hiring process.

3. Enlist the help of your probation/parole officer and non-profit organizations that help to find employment for people with criminal records. The Safer Foundation is an example of a non-profit organization that can help.

4. Submit as may applications as possible. The more applications you submit, the more likely you are to find an employer that will give you a chance. Be truthful on the applications you submit. Lying on your application may result in you getting fired if you do get hired.

5. Put together a professional-looking resume that highlights your work experience to keep the employer focused on your work history instead of your criminal history. Most companies will require you to submit an application; however, you can always attach your resume to your application, which will usually move your application to the front of the line.

6. Dress appropriately to get applications and for interviews. If you choose to apply in person at businesses, wear professional attire, such as dress slacks and a dress shirt or a suit if you are a man or a nice dress or business suit if you are a woman.

7. Be prepared to answer questions about your conviction and incarceration. It is likely that you will be able to impress your prospective employer if you can answer the questions calmly and remain in control and confident during the interview.

Tips & Warnings

• Apply for entry-level or minimum-wage jobs. You may have to start off working at fast-food establishments or retail stores to get a solid work history behind you. This will help build your resume and will get you solid professional references as long as you do your job properly and show your employer a good work ethic.

• Jobs in the education industry or medical industry and jobs that require a security clearance usually won't be able to hire a person with a criminal record.

References

• Legal Assistance Resource Center of Conneticut
• Careerbuildfer.com Article
• Privacy Rights Clearinghouse

Resources

• Safer Foundation