How To Write A Resume Even With A Criminal Record
4:21 PM
Job
searching is equally tough for beginners and experienced people alike because
they have to show employers that they are the right person for the job. It's
not that easy to secure a job these days most especially if you are a person
with a criminal record and you are certainly at a disadvantage because of that.
An ex-offender will have to be extra careful on their job search particularly
on their resume because this is where they will divulge any useful information
about themselves.
It's going
to be a challenge for people with a bad history, but that's no reason to feel
down and give up because there is a way to show employers that you're still a
capable and skilled person who could contribute a lot to the goals of their
organization. In order to increase your chances even with a criminal record,
here are a few tips that you can use to customize your resume.
1.) Don't
include your criminal record - We all know that a resume should reveal every information about us. But in this case, you are
better off not listing your past blunders for now because you'll get turned
down immediately if you did. Keep in mind that a resume is your ticket to get a
job interview, so build a resume that will cover the needs of your potential
employer. Any issues about your criminal record can be handled on the interview
itself.
2.)
Emphasize your skills/trainings - Employers are only interested on your skills and your possible
contributions for their company which is good news despite your status.
However, be careful when presenting anything in prison terms because that would
put your chances at risk. For example, let's say that you have attained
additional skills or education from "California State
Penitentiary." But instead of writing that, it'll be much better if
it's written as "State of California."
3.) Use a
functional resume format - There are
many types of resume that you can choose from such as chronological, functional
and hybrid. However, you might want to steer clear from a chronological resume
as it could spell doom for your job search. That type of resume would show
employment gaps which leaves you totally vulnerable. You're better off with a
functional or a hybrid resume that would highlight your skills, personal
attributes and expertise.
4.) Find out
the company's hiring policy - HR managers are mainly responsible for recruitment and they have
different ways to determine which people are fit to work for their company. If
you were a convicted person in the past, then you better do your homework by
reading their hiring policy. Employers are very strict about felonies that
happened recently or in the last five years. You are pretty much safe if you
don't fall in any of those categories because you can submit your resume without
worries.
5.) Seek
assistance - Building a
decent resume is difficult for everyone including past offenders, but they
might need a little bit of help. Not everyone is blessed with excellent writing
skills and it's going to be a hindrance on your case. However, you can get
support from people who specialize in writing resumes and finding employment
for people who served time in prison. An expert resume writer can also help you
write an appropriate resume or CV for an affordable price.
Your resume
is essential to get you on the next level on your job search, but you're not
out of the woods just yet. Do not try to lie or hide it because that would
definitely complicate things further for you. As an applicant, you'll have to
be honest to your employer regardless if you had a dark past or not.
About the Guest Author: Sophia Jennings is a college student and a
part-time writer for a UK essay writing
company. She's quite knowledgeable in the field of education, social media
and career development which she learned through various people and
experiences.
0 komentar