If you are feeling discouraged in your search for jobs for felons, you are not alone. While the notion that everyone deserves a second chance is common, when it comes to entering the workforce, employers often sing a different tune. Don't despair. With tenacity and hard work you may be able to can find a great job and prove that you are reformed.
Finding Jobs for Felons
The online search for employment for people with felonies can be exhausting, and some less-than-legit organizations may ask for money to find work for you. The first rule is to never pay to work, no matter how appealing the proposition may appear. Learn how to find your niche as you consider opportunities to show that you are on the straight and narrow.
Felony Discrimination
Unfortunately, after you have commented a felony, you may become a target of discrimination based on your past behaviors and choices. In order to overcome the discrimination, it is necessary to take steps to rebuild your reputation.
How do you do this when you have a record darkening your horizon? First, avoid thinking about the jobs that you can no longer do with a felony. It isn't likely that you are going to work for your local school district and the possibility of landing a position with a daycare is nil. You will also not be eligible for a commercial driver's license (CDL). However, you can take steps to prove that you are a reliable person who has many skills to offer.
To Tell or Not to Tell
Honesty is the best policy, as they say, but it may be tempting to hide your criminal background from potential employers. If there is a remote chance that a company will do a background check, it is best to volunteer the information. As long as you prove your work ethic and your skills, an employer may give you a chance if you are forthcoming. It is important to be realistic, though. If your record holds a felony drug charge, employers may turn a blind eye. However, assault and violent crimes are far more difficult to overcome.
Volunteer Experience
Being out of work can be depressing, but it can lead to opportunities to volunteer for your community. This is an excellent way to build valuable skills while demonstrating your work ethic. It may also lead to a job. Not all organizations are willing to allow ex-felons to volunteer for them, but it doesn't hurt to ask. Find opportunities to volunteer at Volunteers of America.
Church Connections
Finding jobs for felons involves finding forgiving spirits that you may not normally find in the cynical corporate world. Genuine desire to find work can lead you to find great opportunities through your local church. Some may offer second chance programs for people with criminal records.
Consider the Government
While many commercial companies may not be able to see past a felony, government agencies may recognize that you have paid your debt to society after you have served your time. Visit USAJobs to find "low risk" positions. This website allows you to upload your resume, browse jobs, and apply for employment. The beauty of using this valuable tool is that you have a golden opportunity to find work with an organization that can rebuild your reputation.
A few other websites to check include:
- CareerOneStop is supported by the U.S. Department of Labor's Employment and Training Administration.
- The military is an excellent avenue to consider as well.
Companies that Hire Felons
No company overtly offers jobs for felons, but you can find employment opportunities with many employers. According to Eric Mayo, author of From Jail to a Job, the following companies may hire felons:
- AAMCO
- Allstate Insurance
- American Express
- Anderson Windows
- AT&T
- Avon
- Blue Cross/Blue Shield
- Bridgestone/Firestone
- Calvin Klein
- Campbell Soups
- Chase Bank
- Coldwell Banker
- Dairy Queen
- Denny's Inc.
- DuPont Co.
- Duracell
- Eddie Bauer
- Exxon
- Federal Express
- General Electric
- General Mills
- Georgia-Pacific
- GMAC
- Haines
- Hilton Hotels
- K-Mart
- Kraft Foods
- L.A. Times
- McDonalds
- Mobil Oil
- Motorola
- New York Times
- Newsweek
- Pepsi-Co
- Phillip Morris
- Rubbermaid Inc
- Sara-Lee
- Sears
- Sony
- Southwest Air
- Sprint
- Target
- ToysRUs
- United Airlines
- Verizon
- Walgreens
- Wal-Mart
- Xerox
- Zenith Electronics
This list is not comprehensive, but it gives you can idea of the myriad of companies that may be willing to offer a second chance to those with felony convictions.
Second Chances
Felons who have paid their debt to society may believe that they deserve a second chance. While this is an attractive notion, it is necessary to earn that second chance. With genuine hard work and sincere desire to better your life, you can open a world of opportunity for yourself. Read Ex-Convicts Search for Employment for more ideas on finding a good job.
