Felon in NJ needs Job Search Advice

I was convicted of a felony about a year ago for a theft that took place when I was 19 years old. I am now 21 years old in desperate need of gainful employment. I have a great work history, however the mistake that I made as an unwise young man is preventing me from attaining employment. When I go to interviewers usually love me and WANT TO HIRE ME, but once the background check is administered I don't hear from them. I am extremely remorseful for the mistakes that I have made and it grieves me everyday to know that I can't turn back the hands of time. Since my conviction I've gone back to school. Two weeks after my release I landed a job at Banana Republic of Short Hills Mall . However I was terminated a few weeks before Christmas for the record.

I received my diploma in January and I'm looking forward to college next semester. I have a two year old son that looks up to me so much and i want to be the BEST that I can be for him. I just got hired at the airport on Friday . They want me to come in for a drug test and finger printing on Monday. Should I go In knowing I have a record? Do I Even Qualify? It would change my life it you could help in any way to get this baggage handling position.

Please get back to me.

Rayon

Felon in NJ needs Job Search Advice

Hello Rayon,

My guess is when you apply for jobs, you are not completely honest on applications. Often it is tempting not to list a conviction. Even if you get hired, once the background check is done you will probably get fired - not for having a conviction, but for being dishonest. I always encourage ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs is to always be honest.

In regards to your upcoming opportunity, you have to take it. You have a theft conviction which will often make you an unlikely candidate for positions where anything of value is at risk. A position as a baggage handler doesn't require a great amount of trust so you have a decent shot. In the future, honesty is always the best policy. I would also look into the federal bonding program. Check out the video below: