Job search in recovery for those with a criminal record

What’s the hardest thing you’ve ever done? If you’re in recovery from an addiction, and if you’ve picked up a criminal record besides, one thing is certain – job search probably doesn’t make the top three on your answer list.

When you need to find work, it should give you courage to know this won’t be the greatest challenge you’ve faced. The question isn’t “Can you?” or “Will you find work?” because, really, what choice do you have? The real question is “How?”

Following are three steps to take, and seven tips to help you be more strategic while building the career plan for your new life.

Step 1: Inform yourself. Do you know what your criminal record shows – and do you know that it’s accurate? How about the fields that may be barred to you, or restrictions on the work you take? Are you aware of laws governing what employers may ask you in the employment process? The more you know, the better.

Step 2: Make a plan. Although it’s possible to tumble into a successful career or job, that becomes less likely when you have strikes against you. Add in a difficult and confusing market (thank you, coronavirus), and you’re stretching luck beyond its limits. Strive, instead, for a plan that incorporates both ideal and less-than-ideal options.

Step 3: Ask for help. Whether you need fullon direction and counseling or just a few ideas for your resume, there’s no reason to do this alone. With someone else in the picture, you’ll be supported but you’ll also be accountable, which is always a winning combination. Starting with CareerOneStop.org (877-8725627), a nationally comprehensive outreach sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, look for free programs for people in recovery, for ex-offenders, for veterans, for long-term unemployed workers, for laid-off workers, or for any other category you may fit. You’ll also find a service locator on this site for local CareerForce centers and other assistance near you.

Here are those seven tips to help you be more strategic while making your plans.

Work early and often. Gig jobs, part-time labor, telephone sales … remember that future career-path employers would rather hire an ex-con/recovering addict who’s been underemployed than one who’s been completely unemployed. It just looks better.

Pile on the training. Even short, online courses in work-based topics will add to your skills while demonstrating tenacity and determination.

Leverage training. If you are inclined toward the trades, an apprenticeship program could be the all-inone answer to your career process. Dozens of trades offer paid work experience coupled with classroom training, leading to highly skilled career opportunities.

Volunteer. The more you give, the more you get. As a committed and reliable volunteer, you’ll build connections, references and skills while also filling your resume with communitybased experience.

Make a good resume. This situation calls for more than a template. Ask for help highlighting your skills and “can do’s” while also downplaying gaps or other issues. Remember that you don’t need to disclose your recovery or criminal background in your resume or cover letter. It’s better strategy to have that conversation in the interview.

Prepare for interviews. Enough employers conduct background checks that you should assume your criminal history will be found. Luckily, the checks don’t happen until after the interview, which means you can get ahead of the story by bringing it up yourself. Practice with a skilled partner to hone the narrative and the timing.

Lean on your network. You’ll have the chance to give back or pay it forward, but right now you need help. Swallow your pride and ask your friends directly: “Who do you know who would interview me? Hook me up and I’ll take it from there.” Expand that request to friends of friends, past colleagues, mentors, teachers, counselors and other. Networking is the key for any job seeker.

Bonus tip: Believe in yourself. Whatever has happened in your past, believe that you’re redeemable. Somebody needs you and will appreciate having you on board.