unemployed Landscaper
I have owned and operated my own landscaping business for the past 15 years. I recently withdrew myself from the industry due to lack of profitability in the location where I live and worked for someone else who laid me off when I asked for a raise. I have filled out many applications but as soon as prospective employers get to the background checks I get turned down. Most people like me, I have a strong work ethic and do really well at whatever I do. I have many skills, i am dependable, reliable, and work at the highest quality and efficiency level I can but nobody can see past the two grand larceny's I have. I have been working with the department of labor and have applied for grants for training, but I have enough skills I think, I shouldnt have to train any more. I just want a descent paying job and appreciated for the work I preform. Any suggestions?
Aaron, you're entirely welcome. I know what it's like to feel like you're completely stuck and trapped by your history. It's not your past that makes you, it's your future. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you need help!
Hi Aaron! First of all, I think it's pretty terrible that someone laid you off when you ask for a raise. I suppose you're better off not working with that kind of boss, but still! That's what I would consider a major jerk-move that your employer did that.
Now that that's out of the way I'll let you know that this is (unfortunately) a common theme here on Jobcase. You're absolutely not alone in this issue. I see you've already joined the group "A new start for felons" and that's a great start. With any luck folks in this group will be able to help each other out!
There's also a fantastic resource for ex-offenders called https://exoffenders.net/. This site was started by an ex-offender who wanted to help others in your position. I highly recommend taking some time to take a look around the site. It offers a really helpful list of companies that are known for being felon friendly (https://exoffenders.net/employment-jobs-for-felons/) and includes companies like Ace Hardware, General Electric, Costco, Bridgestone Tire, and Frito-Lay (and many more, take a look!). This might be a great place to start your search. Research the companies on that list that are near you and try applying for them first!
You should also know the precise benefits an employer may see be hiring you as an ex-offender and make sure they are known in a cover letter or interview. There's an article on Huffington Post about reasons why employers should hire ex-felons (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/mike-green/five-bottom-line-reasons-_b_8021476.html). Because you are a hard-working and and skilled individual it might help to remind employers that they get a real person with motivation if they hire you, not just your record.
If you're applying for a job that and the application process requires you to report your ex-offender status immediately I recommend always including a cover letter with more information about your history and how it has changed and shaped you as an employee. I think a lot of employers see the criminal history and can't see past that. An honest and thoughtfully worded cover letter could really help you shine and show them your humanity and your determination.
The incredibly unfortunate reality of the situation is that a lot of employers won't be willing to verlook your past. This means that you, as a jobseeker and as an applicant, have to be even stronger, more resilient, and more dedicated than other folks applying for jobs. Remember to be kind with yourself and with others as you go through this process. Try to be strong and have patience-- somewhere out there is an employer who is willing to listen to you and actually hear what you have to say. It may take some time but we are here for you in the meantime!
Aaron, I can't speak for everyone but I do know how one of my past employers approached an exoffender's past. We looked at the nature of the offense, the age of the exoffender at the time of the offense, what the exoffender has accomplished since the offense (especially volunteer work) and if the offense might have any impact on the position or business. The company was instrumental in transitioning exoffenders into the workforce and I can think of at least one who helped transition others like him. I hope this helps and I wish you well.