Felon2Professional

The struggle is real. I am a professional who works for a corporation in HQ. Business is tough as many retailers are. The company is laying off over the next few weeks, there is a big chance that my role can be on that chopping block.
Whenever it is time for me to even think about applying to a new role, the first thing on my mind; "I wonder how far they go on their background checks!" This is sad that this has to be a thought for any of us. It is just reality. It has been 14 years. Surprisingly 14 years is not enough for some employers.
This is what I think.. If a business is still holding background checks as a final decision in the hiring process, I do not want to work for them. I am 100% on board with having to do a background check, I do understand that time is the only thing on our side other than our actions. So, I guess I should rephrase that. Any company who rescinds an offer based on a decade old charge I want nothing to do with. One of the first questions I have for the employers is "What is your background requirements?" "Do you offer individualized assessments?" I don't ask for myself, I ask because I am recruiter and whoever I am recruiting for I want to ensure they are pro justice impacted individuals.
So while I may be on this journey called explaining myself once again, I am thankful to be in a position where I can decide who i want to work for. While they may not choose me, I can also not choose them.
If your struggling right now to find employment, do NOT give up! You will be where you meant to be, and when you get there you will look back and say "Thank goodness"

This is someone who I aspire to be like. Louise L. Reed is legit.

www.linkedin.com

Let’s talk resumes: from personal experience I have always included my job while incarcerated on my resume. For Example:
Danbury, CT 2008-2012
Kitchen Assistant
Cook & Good Prep
( Detailed job duties )

After I sell myself I then bring up my background and explain my situation. Once the 10 year mark hit I no longer included it. After 10 years I did include a gap with the verbiage personal development. Often while incarcerated we learn skills and/or take valuable programs. Including that on your resume can show that you did well with time. I do not include that I was incarcerated on my resume I only include the city and state. This may not be right for everyone but it was right for me. What did you do?

Justice impacted individuals have extra hurdles to jump through. After 12 years of being released I still have to jump through them. it’s ok to jump when needed, sometimes we land sometimes we fall but never give up

Sometimes if coming out of incarceration we have little to no work experience.

Writing a resume with no formal work experience means emphasizing other aspects of your life that'll showcase your skills and passions—like your education, and involvement in activities like extracurriculars or volunteering. Having dedicated sections for a summary and a list of skills can round out your resume.
You will need to explain this but I included my work experience while Incarcerated including the extra curricular activities I did while there.

How to Write a Resume with No Experience: 5 Tips Writing a resume with no formal work experience means emphasizing other aspects of your life that’ll showcase your skills and passions—like your education, and involvement in activities like extracurriculars or volunteering.

Life is hard, especially if you keep getting no after no. In my experience those no’s made me push harder. I was on a mission to prove everyone wrong. Don’t ever give up!

In 2013 I was released from prison I took 2 jobs. One as a waitress at Waffle House and one as a waitress at Applebee’s. I worked my butt off and knew I wanted more but I had to prove myself….. I spent a year picking up and staying late when no one else wanted. I was promoted to lead then a manager I worked for 5 years gaining experience in management and learning transferable skills and allowing time to be on my side. It didn’t end there I kept going ……

WHATS YOUR PASSION?
If you don't know, one way to find out is to ask yourself "What breaks my heart?" What are things you see that make you go, "I wish that would change." That is also a passion.

Sometimes it is not the door you want to go in, but its a door that will get you to where you want to go. Then, when that door closes another opens.
Experience is everything, if you want to be somewhere in life look at what are the roles that will get you there. Work hard, do what others wont, stay late, come in early. STAND OUT!

Using a resume template is a must. I shared a link below on free templates. Once you find a template use this guide to guide you if you need assistance.

How to Make a Resume: Step-by-Step Writing Guide for 2023 How to write a resume that will get you the job? See this guide for the best resume examples and resume making rules, and create a resume in a few easy steps.

I came across this webpage. I have not used it but seems helpful?

Jobs For Felons In Columbus, Ohio - UPDATED DAILY If you're a felon looking for a job in Columbus, Ohio we can help. Our list of felon friendly employers will help you become employed again.