It is not easy to find employment if you happen to have a criminal history. Still, it can be done! You need patience and perseverance, and you should be aware that most of the businesses you approach in your search for a job will conduct a pre-employment background search in order to check your background. Among other things, they are looking for criminal records. This has become necessary because so many companies have been sued for large sums of money because they unknowingly hired someone who had a criminal record, and this person caused harm to someone in the workplace. This type of lawsuit is called a negligent hiring suit, and it has that name because as far as the law is concerned, an employer is negligent when they do not use care and good judgment when it comes to hiring new workers. This is what a criminal record check is for – to weed out job applicants who are deemed as unsatisfactory because of their past.

Why are employers so concerned with your past? Even though you may be attempting to straighten out your life and rejoin the workforce, there is some concern among those in the business world that an ex-offender might be tempted to break the law again, and if that happens, they don’t want it to take place while you are gainfully employed by them!

So, what can someone with a past criminal record do? In our society, once a person has made a mistake, it can be quite difficult to find an employer who will give him a chance. Every time you go on a job search and hopefully fill out an application, you’ll probably notice that there is usually a space to check off if you have a criminal record. This may make you feel defeated before you even have a job interview! And, it’s hard to know just what to do. If you tell the truth, chances are you won’t even be considered for the job. If you lie about your criminal record and get the job, don’t be surprised if somehow, your employer finds out and promptly fires you.

Be aware that in certain job situations, you can answer any questions about your past by stating "No" with a clear conscience. If you were not convicted of the crime you were accused of committing, you are not required to report it in many states. You also have the option in some states to have the courts legally erase your offense from the books. Your attorney also may be able to help you set aside your record by going back to court.

You may be able to get assistance from special organizations that are set up to help past offenders who want to go back to work. Many of them have worked out an agreement with a few area businesses that will take a chance on someone with a criminal record. As a public service, they will also help by putting in a good word for you with the business. Some of these businesses will assist you with job training as well as other techniques to help get you back on your feet.

Even if it takes you a while to land a job because of it, honesty is always the best policy! An employer will be much more impressed with your admittance of a criminal past than if he finds out you lied to him about it when he does a background check. Your motivation to turn your life around may also impress an employer – enough for him to hire you! Believe in yourself, and project that belief as you go about your job search, and you will surely have success!