People who are returning to their communities after being incarcerated are likely to face common issues in society. They might get difficulty in finding jobs or homes; even they have the inability to vote. Despite these issues, they must learn the basic steps to follow towards finding a suitable job.

It is supposed that the society or community will treat them equally but the unfortunate truth is that it’s an uphill climb. Because of these common issues, many formerly incarcerated individuals have never had the opportunity to attain high levels of education, making the path to a productive career options for convicted felons.

Essential Tasks before Applying for Jobs

  • Get a driver’s license or another form of ID
  • Establish a permanent address
  • Make a good network outside
  • Figure out transportation
  • Establish court-ordered requirements
  • Know your rights
  • Create the “why you should hire me” list
  • Enhance your personality, work on it
  • Learn the interview basics
  • Be easily available to contact
  • Get a new phone number
  • See if you qualify for public assistance
  • Get healthcare coverage
  • Consider substance abuse or sobriety counseling

About more than half of prisoners are unemployed a year after they have been released. However, it is not impossible to find a job. An effective job search requires that you connect with the right people and resources, search for jobs you are qualified for. Once you begin working, you should consider advancing your career with some training or additional education.

Tips for Finding Employment After Prison Release

Don’t think it’s impossible, whilst finding a job after being released from jail is no simple task. There is no denying that finding employment is critical for felons after incarceration. Studies have found that one of the most important factors affecting their employment status is criminal background.

Most importantly, being employed greatly reduces your dependency on others. It comes with many benefits like boosting social ties, improving one’s financial situation, and providing opportunities for further education and training. Remember these essential points while looking for some job opportunity:

  • Learn which jobs are off-limits
  • Look for wide opportunities
  • Look for a “Transition Job”
  • Don’t give up
  • Seek help if required
  • Start your own business

For the further convenience of felons, government and individual organizations have come forward with great initiatives. Given below are some of the effective ways that you can avail the benefit from these additional programs.

How Can You Take Advantage Of the Additional Programs?

  • GED programs
  • Free educational programs
  • Vocational and technical training
  • Join college classes
  • Learning academy and similar programs
  • Get Sessions of Career counseling

How Will You Prepare Yourself to Apply For a Job?

Make sure that you know the right things to keep in mind once you go for some professional interview. Follow the following steps before you apply for any job:

  • Search websites that hire felons
  • Try to contact the employer
  • Respond to follow up requests for information
  • Find your local one-stop career center
  • Look at your employment history
  • Practice answers to common questions
  • Translate experience into marketable skills
  • Decide how you will address your criminal history
  • Set up an email account
  • Build a good resume
  • Do look for the fidelity bond if any

Finding a job is an important part of change after the captivity. Ideally, you need to find a job that matches your skills and interests. The reality is exactly the opposite as most of them do not find the correct match for their desired careers.

Common Jobs for Individuals With Criminal Record

Starting a Career: Transition Jobs

How important it is to become financially stable and move up into a career that you enjoy. Yes, it’s important. Think of your first few jobs after release as “transition jobs” that help you achieve long-term career goals.

In addition to a paycheck, there are several other benefits also to working in a transition job. You get a fair chance to prove that you are strong and self-reliant. It is a feeling of pride and accomplishment. Apart from this, you often learn different ways of thinking and doing things.

The Final Lines

If you want to choosing a career after incarceration, you must keep in mind the various factors. Some of the important tips have been discussed above to give you knowledge about the right approach before applying for a job.  

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