Applying for a job with a felony conviction on your record can be daunting. Honesty is crucial, but navigating the complexities of disclosure requires careful consideration. This guide will help you understand how to answer felony questions on a job application ethically and strategically, maximizing your chances of securing employment.
Understanding the Laws and Employer Rights
Before addressing how to answer, understand the legal landscape. The specifics vary by state and even employer, but generally:
- Ban the Box: Many jurisdictions have "Ban the Box" laws delaying the inquiry about criminal history until later in the hiring process. This doesn't eliminate the question entirely, but it gives you more time to prepare.
- Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA): Employers must comply with the FCRA, which governs background checks. This usually means they must obtain your consent before conducting a background check and provide you with a copy of the report if they deny you employment based on it.
- Employer Discretion: While laws exist to protect you from discrimination, employers retain the right to consider your criminal record in hiring decisions, especially for certain roles.
Strategically Answering Felony Questions
The best approach depends on when the question arises:
1. Application Stage (Checkboxes or Brief Explanations):
- "Have you ever been convicted of a felony?" If the application presents a simple yes/no checkbox, answer honestly. If there's space for explanation, briefly state that you have a felony conviction and are willing to discuss it further if selected for an interview. Avoid lengthy details at this stage.
- Example: "Yes. I am happy to discuss this further in an interview."
2. Interview Stage (More Detailed Explanation):
This is your opportunity to present a narrative that showcases your rehabilitation and suitability for the role. Here’s how to approach it:
- Be Prepared: Anticipate the question. Prepare a concise, factual account of your conviction, focusing on the lessons learned and positive changes made since.
- Focus on the Positive: Emphasize your post-conviction achievements, such as education, job experience, community involvement, or therapy. Highlight skills and experiences relevant to the job.
- Show Remorse (Authentically): Express genuine remorse for your past actions without dwelling on the details. Avoid making excuses.
- Demonstrate Rehabilitation: Clearly articulate the steps you've taken to rebuild your life and ensure such behavior won't repeat. This could include therapy, education, community service, or sustained employment.
- Address Concerns Directly: If the conviction relates to the job's responsibilities (e.g., a financial crime for an accounting position), proactively address potential concerns, demonstrating your understanding and ability to perform the job safely and effectively.
- Example: "Yes, I was convicted of [offense] several years ago. I deeply regret my actions and have since [taken steps to rehabilitate myself, e.g., completed a substance abuse program, earned a degree, etc.]. I am committed to being a productive member of society and confident I can be a valuable asset to your team."
3. Background Check Stage:
- Cooperation is Key: Cooperate fully with the background check process. Withholding information will likely result in disqualification.
- Address Discrepancies: If there are discrepancies between your application and the background check report, explain them promptly and truthfully.
Things to Avoid:
- Lying: This will almost certainly disqualify you and can have serious legal consequences.
- Exaggerating: Inflating your accomplishments or minimizing the severity of your offense will backfire.
- Being Defensive: Avoid becoming defensive or argumentative. Focus on presenting a positive and forward-looking narrative.
- Providing Unnecessary Details: Keep your explanation concise and relevant to the job application.
Resources:
While this guide provides valuable information, seeking legal counsel is advisable for personalized guidance depending on your specific situation and location.
Successfully navigating a felony disclosure requires careful preparation, honesty, and a focus on your positive attributes and rehabilitation. By following these steps, you can increase your chances of securing employment and building a successful future.
