Statistics show that “one out of every three” Americans has a criminal record, which amounts to around 100 million people. While those stats are astounding, as a justice-impacted person, who is soon to be imprisoned, “I see opportunity in the numbers.”
According to these figures, 29% of the population has been justice-impacted. How is that positive, or an opportunity, you ask? Well, statistics also show that the average number of family members per person is 3.15 in the U.S., and the average number of friends, according to studies, is 53% of Americans have one to four friends, and 38% have five or more friends.
The upside in these numbers is that, based on family size and the number of friends and acquaintances we all have, there is a great likelihood that a large percentage of Americans know of someone who has been impacted by justice in one way or another; therefore, the average Recruiter or Human Resource Manager will not be surprised that you have a criminal record. This is your “opportunity” to capitalize on the statistics; you are part of a special group of 100 million that has completed a sentence and paid your debt to society. Some of America’s largest companies, such as Amazon, Google, Starbucks, and others, are hiring felons or ex-convicts. You are an opportunity for those companies. They are looking for reformed, hard-working people. “Like You”
Here are some pointers:
• Show your value: Prepare a professional resume, don’t just focus on what companies you’ve worked for, be sure to include those extra projects you did while working. Do share good outcomes, no matter how small.
• Prepare for your interview: A clean-cut, well-groomed, and well-dressed candidate will always impress.
• Don’t hold back: Remember that every question is an opportunity to present why they need you and why you are the best person for the job.
• Be up front: Now that you’ve got their attention. Turn it into a positive experience, be ready to answer every question, including why there is a gap in your resume. Use statistics in your favor; for example, rather than saying “I’m an ex-convict.” Say, I am one of 100 million people impacted by justice, I made a mistake, and paid my debt to society. I participated in educational programs, read some interesting books, reflected, and I am ready to work hard for a company that can offer me the opportunity to grow.
I personally hired many convicted felons during my years in business. In fact, last summer I was interviewing a guy for a sales manager position, and before I could ask him about the gap in his resume, he said; I want to be respectful of your time, and told me about the five years he served. That impressed me so much, I told HR to run his background, and we hired him the next day. Honesty was the key.
“Success is about taking advantage of opportunity.”
-Mike Ditka
M.E. Lluberes
