Job Searching with a Criminal Record

Employers will look at your background and the type of job you are applying for. Some employers always do background checks because of the nature of the job. For example: nurses, child care providers, public school jobs, policemen, etc. There is not a list of employers who do or do not hire candidates with a criminal record. You may need to call some employers in your job search area to see what their hiring process involves.

Volunteer or have work experiences to establish some skills and strong references. This will go a long way in helping you land a job by having references who can provide firsthand knowledge of you work abilities. Be sure to list all relevant work experiences including internships on your resume. Talking with you family and friends is the best way to land a job, by asking them to hire you or recommend you.

You do not need to mention your criminal background on your resume. If the employer or application form ask for your criminal background, be honest. If you were arrested but not charged or convicted then you do not need to disclose it. Know what is on your criminal record should a background check be pulled. Many employers routinely process these checks, so be truthful and knowledgeable.

Yes. Ask your attorney, public defender or your parole/probation officer if this is possible. Know exactly what you were convicted of and what is on your criminal record. You might want to obtain a copy of your record or ask your parole/probation officer.

Make sure your resume is written specifically toward the job you are applying for. You can find resume help on the Career Services website and you can call Career Services at 970-248-1404 to make an appointment for help in resume creation and editing.

After you consider the type of company you are applying to and eliminate companies/jobs for which your record will automatically disqualify you. For example: government jobs requiring security clearances, military jobs, insurance or banking jobs, jobs working with children, etc. Narrow down possible companies and jobs you would be interested in. Review the application form and see if a criminal background check is included. You can always call the employer and ask if your criminal record would eliminate you from being considered for the job. View the Career Services website for tips on job searching.

Always dress professionally, this is the employer’s first impression of you. Be honest during your interview, if there are any questions concerning your criminal background you will need to be prepared to talk about it. Information on practicing your interview can be found on the Career Services website. Make an appointment with a Career Services staff to practice interviewing by calling 970-248-1404.

Try not to get discouraged, it is rare for anyone to get the first job they apply for. The employer who won’t consider you because of your record probably is not the employer you’d want to work for anyway. Persistence is key!