Finding a job can be hard for anyone, but it can be even harder if you have a criminal record. Just because you have been in trouble with the law in the past does not mean that you'll never be able to find a job again, however. If you follow these three tips, you can improve your chances of finding a job, even if you have been convicted of a misdemeanor or felony in the past.

1. Talk to an Attorney

First of all, consider talking to a criminal defense attorney about your situation. Depending on your offenses, there is a chance that you might not have to disclose your record when you apply for jobs. One instance might be, for example, a situation in which you have not yet been convicted but are awaiting trial. You may also be able to have your records sealed or expunged – for example, maybe you were a juvenile when the offense occurred. Every situation is different, so it's best to talk to an attorney to determine what your options and rights are.

2. Be Honest

It can be tempting to check "no" on a job application when asked if you have ever been convicted of a crime, but many employers have ways of finding these things out. If you tell the truth, there is a chance that you will still be given a chance. If you lie, however, there's a better chance that you won't get hired. Even if you get the job, you might be fired later for lying on your application if you're ever found out.

3. Consider Applying with Small Businesses

Many larger corporations have strict rules in place about things like hiring people with criminal records. This means that even if the supervisor or manager likes you and your application, you might still not be able to get a chance. You might have a better choice of getting hired if you apply at a small business, where the owner might be the one making the decisions. If you have a strong application or resume and you get off to a good start with the owner or manager, he or she might decide to bend the rules for you. This is often not possible with larger businesses, where the person who is doing the hiring might have many higher-ups above him or her.

It is possible to get a job with a criminal record, even though it might not be easy. Luckily, following these tips can help make it easier for you to find suitable employment, regardless of what might be on your criminal record.

Share