How To Get A Good Job Even If You Are A Convicted Felon

By Chris Loomis, P.I.

So, some time back you go pinched for who-cares-what. Now you're out on parole, and need a job. Regardless of your past you need money like everyone else to survive. What do you do?

First of all you have to realistically understand that you are never going to have certain jobs.  You're not ever going to work around firearms or explosives. You're probably never going to have any job that requires a license. And working in the healthcare fields or any job around kids is probably not open to you.

The first thing I'm going to suggest is that you seek the advice of your Parole Officer if you're still on parole. If you're not then you need to take an inventory of your skills and experience. Did you obtain any formal education before you went away? Do you have some sort of skill that is transferable to the job force?

Do the obvious. Formulate a resume like every other citizen and submit it. You need to get it into the hands of every Temporary Job Agency you can. As well, post it to the internet on places like www.monster.com or www.careerbuilder.com.

Aside from the internet locations of placing your resume you're going to want to start applying to and looking for work at smaller companies. Places where there are few employees and a lack of background checks when hired. As an idea, look for work as a Laborer with a small contractor/construction company where you are working directly with the owner. They're probably going to be more understanding of your history.

Let's talk about school for a second. Regardless of whether you have formal education or not, if you can stomach it, start thinking about returning to school. For one, it will most likely be perceived that you are making every attempt to re-join mainstream society after paying your debt. Two,  it will obviously assist you to pick up basic education and training that will make you further marketable in the work force. Third, if you're like most you got a couple hundred dollars in "bus money" when you were released. When you register for school, you will have to register for financial aid to pay for it. The purpose of financial aid is to help you pay for tuition, and living expenses. When you receive grants there is no requirement for re-payment.

Now, let's cut the garbage. When you were on the street you had to learn to hustle. And, when you were in prison you had to learn how to get along with others through the politics and grasp who was who in the zoo. You had to learn the black market economy. That takes a certain discipline and sophistication.

Put those two strong attributes to use in a positive manner.

Get out there and network. You should network with anyone that will listen. Make a flier about yourself, or get some business cards made on the cheap. Talk to people at church. Talk to people who you see in your alcohol/addiction recovery programs (if you attend such). Talk to people at school. Wherever and whenever. Get your name out on the street. Hand your fliers and your business cards out all over the place.

Good luck. Keep your chin up. And Take Care of Business.