You feel ready to change or take the next step in your career, but with a misdemeanor on your record, you may have trouble qualifying for your dream job. How far out of your way should you go to inform employers of your record?
Chron explores the necessity of sharing a misdemeanor on job applications. Know your rights before you submit applications, so you protect your rights and job prospects.
Look over the application
With each application, review it carefully for wording regarding applicants with a criminal past. For instance, rather than a misdemeanor, you may only need to disclose a felony conviction. Or, you may only have to share details about convictions within the last seven or 10 years.
Understand your rights
In some states, companies cannot bar employment to applicants solely because they have an arrest or conviction on their records. Other states consider misdemeanor offenses non-reportable once an individual completes a delayed entry of judgment or diversion program.
Remain honest
If you have no choice but to share your misdemeanor on an application, do not lie about it. Some employers do not mind hiring applicants with a conviction, especially for minor offenses. Whether you get the job may depend on whether your misdemeanor relates to the position’s responsibilities. When asked about your record, think about the work you put into uplift your life. What did you learn from your encounter with the police? What steps do you take to ensure law enforcement does not hit you with another misdemeanor?
A criminal record need not bar you from every available position. By understanding how to approach your job search, you know where and how to focus your energies.
