Finding a job is challenging. At first, you may need to take about
any job offered so you can get some income rolling in. With steady income to cover your living expenses,
you can start looking for the job you want. The information on this page will help you search for a job
and prepare your resume.
Tips for Finding a Job
It can be challenging for ex-offenders to find employment, but there are
steps you can take to increase your chances of finding a job:
-
Identify your skills and experiences: Think about the skills and experiences you have gained through
your work, education, or other activities. Make a list of these and consider how they may be relevant
to potential employers.
-
Network: Reach out to friends, family, and other connections who may be able to help you find job leads
or provide support and encouragement as you search for work. You can also join professional organizations
or attend job fairs to meet potential employers and learn about job openings.
- Prepare your resume and cover
letter: Make sure your resume and cover letter accurately reflect your skills and experiences and highlight
any achievements or accomplishments. Be honest about your criminal record, but focus on the positive aspects
of your background and how you have worked to overcome any challenges you have faced.
- Consider working with a job placement
or training program: There are organizations that specialize in helping ex-offenders find employment. These
programs often provide job training, resume writing assistance, and other support to help participants
succeed in the job market.
- Be proactive: Don't be afraid to apply
for jobs even if you don't meet all of the requirements. Many employers are willing to provide training or
support to the right candidate, and your enthusiasm and willingness to learn can be a positive factor in
their decision.
It's also important to be honest with potential employers about your criminal
history and to focus on the skills and experiences that make you a strong candidate for the job. Remember that
it may take time and persistence to find employment, but with the right approach and support, you can achieve
your goals.
Tips for Your Resume
If you are an ex-offender looking to include your time served in your resume,
there are a few things you can do to present this information in a positive and professional way:
- Focus on your skills and experience: While
it's important to be honest about your criminal history, your resume should primarily highlight your skills and
experience that are relevant to the job you are applying for. Emphasize any education or training you received
while in prison, as well as any work or volunteer experience you gained while serving your sentence.
- Use language carefully: When describing your
time served, use language that is honest but not defensive or apologetic. For example, you might say "served a
sentence for XYZ crime" rather than "convicted of XYZ crime."
- Consider using a functional format: A
functional resume format allows you to highlight your skills and experience rather than your employment history.
This can be a good option if you have a gap in your employment history due to your time served.
- Include a cover letter: In your cover letter,
you can explain the circumstances surrounding your time served and how you have worked to overcome any challenges
you faced. Use this space to emphasize the skills and experiences you gained while in prison and to highlight
your commitment to turning your life around.
It's also important to be prepared to discuss your criminal history in an interview
and to emphasize the positive steps you have taken to move forward and make a positive contribution to your community.
Remember to stay positive and focus on the skills and experiences that make you a strong candidate for the job.
Final Thought
It's hard to find a job. You may need to try a few different ones at first before
you find a job that fits you and offers a stable income. Once you have steady income to cover your living expenses,
you can start looking for your dream job. While the process is frustrating, persistence will pay off.
