Getting back into the working world following a criminal conviction can be very difficult and stressful. You need to work, you want to work, and you likely know in the back of your head that it will be challenging to do so. It might even feel impossible to secure employment. Here are some tips for finding a job with a criminal record in Florida.
First and foremost, it’s important for you to be open and honest during every job interview. Don’t try to hide the fact that you have a criminal record. The employer will conduct a background check and investigation, which means they will wind up finding your record one way or another.
Consider reaching out to your contacts. These include family members, friends, former employers and anyone else in your life who might be able to help you find employment. When you reach out to your contacts make sure they know your whole story and aren’t kept in the dark about your past.
When at job interviews, talk about all of your specialized training. This can be training you received before, during or after incarceration. Training might put you above other candidates, including those who do not have criminal records.
If there are programs near where you live in Palm Beach Gardens that help ex-cons find jobs, take advantage of those programs. These programs might offer training, help with job interviews and even provide assistance with job placement.
Finding a new job with a criminal record is never easy. You should follow the tips outlined in this post, especially the one about being honest in an interview, and also work with an experienced attorney to guide you in the right direction.