How to Find a Job in Pennsylvania With a Criminal Background

Starting over after you have faced charges for a criminal offense can be a daunting task. On one hand, you have to drastically change your lifestyle and bring it close to normal, which requires a lot of physical and mental effort. On the other hand, you also have to deal with the pressure of developing a public image and rectifying your perception in the eyes of the public.



One of the things encouraged by the state of Pennsylvania is that past offenders should be reinstated into employment. Regular income means the chances of falling back into bad hands are less, but it is regularly seen that people who have a criminal record may face difficulties in finding a job. Past offenders face prejudice during the job-application process.

• 1

  Be truthful in the job application. The state of Pennsylvania requires people to state clearly if they have been prosecuted. If the answer is yes, organizations also require the candidate to state clearly what the offense was.

• 2

  Search the Internet and try websites such as the Hire Network. These websites were developed to aid convicted felons in their job search by finding companies that are willing to hire someone with a criminal background.

• 3

  Ask family and friends to help you in your job search. Chances are, someone in your close circle has a managerial type of position and can vouch for you. These are the people who know you best, and will realize the sincerity and honesty behind your looking for a job.

• 4

  Don't be choosy. Your first job after conviction may not be your dream job, but it is an entry back into the working world. It is more important to get started and gain some experience. Potential employers may also get encouraged when they know you have already worked for someone after the conviction.

• 5

  Ensure that you remain in a positive frame of mind, even when answering questions regarding your conviction. You have already been convicted by a jury; therefore claiming that you were innocent may not be the best idea. Remember, the employer is not looking for a confession from you. Simply present the facts in a straightforward manner. You may also want to ensure that you cover all the details in as short a time as possible. This matter of fact manner may also discourage the employer from asking further questions.

• 6

  Don't forget to cover what you have done since being convicted. You may have started volunteering at the local church since your release, or maybe you have joined other groups to improve your social standing and attitude. You may also want to talk about the problems you had in the past and what you did to overcome them.