The interview process tips

DON'T

DO

DON'T be unprepared for questions about your criminal history.
DON'T see yourself as an ex-convict unworthy of employment.

DO be prepared.
DO decide whether you will tell an employer directly and explain what you have learned from the situation or if you will avoid giving any information unless you are specifically asked. Our suggestion is that "honesty is the best policy." How you communicate the information makes a difference.
DO see yourself as worthwhile and a valuable asset who has the skills and abilities an employer needs.
DO have a positive self-image and confidence in your skills and abilities to "sell yourself" to an employer.

DON'T be lengthy in explaining things.

DO keep it short and discuss only necessary items.

When asked about your criminal conviction, DON'T say things like "The cops set me up" or "I didn't do anything wrong; it was my brother, Bob, who should have went to prison."

DO be honest.
DO explain what you learned from your prison experience or how you want to better yourself after being in prison.
DO take responsibility for the actions that led you to prison.

DON'T lie about your criminal background. Employers now have a way to review your criminal background on the Internet! If you are fired, it's not because you are a felon, but because you

DO stress that although you were incarcerated, you haven't been lazy; explain things you did to stay busy or improve yourself (worked, read, etc.)

DON'T stress out!

DO relax and be comfortable in explaining you're criminal conviction.
DO practice ahead of time.
DO maintain eye contact; this shows you have nothing to hide.
DO believe in yourself - it will show.
DO add something positive about your skills and abilities or positive information about the company.

DON'T be blind to programs that can help you get a job.

DO remember The Oliver Foundation Program. This program is committed to assist offenders to re-enter society and job market.

How would you answer the question, "Have you ever been convicted of a crime?"

Below are some examples of how to answer that difficult question!

EXAMPLE 1

Interviewer:

"I see from your application that you have been convicted of a crime. Will you explain this to me? Tell me about it."

Applicant:

"I'm glad you asked because I want you to feel comfortable hiring me. It is embarrassing for me to talk about. I want to assure you that it had nothing to do with my previous employers. I took some things that didn't belong to me and as a result, I've taken the time to decide what field I would like to get into. I have enrolled in several clerical courses and can type 50 wpm. I am familiar with several software programs for word processin, and have excellent phone skills. I am very interested in learning all I can about this industry, and I know I would be an asset to your organization."

-OR-

"When I was younger I got mixed up with the wrong crowds and got in trouble for breaking into cars. We all do things when we are young that we regret. I used the time to my advantage by completing an air conditioning and heating training program and received my certificate. I've researched several air conditioning companies in the area and yours is well respected. I would really like to be a part of your team."

-OR-

"In my past, I was involved with drugs, but that is all behind me, and I've taken control of my life. I have two years of experience in food service and want to stay in this industry and learn as much as possible.