Have you looked into Defy Ventures? They're a national non-profit who helps currently and formerly incarcerated people with career readiness and professional development. They may have some advice for you.

Tough one. There are a small, but increasing, number of states where they cannot ask about past felony convictions unless related to the job (e.g., bank where you need to be bonded). My partner’s rule was to be absolutely honest if asked, but not to volunteer. In your case, such a big gap on your resume will probably raise questions. I’ve always tried to turn negatives to positives, with a bit of humor when appropriate: “There’s nothing like being young and stupid to teach you why being older and wiser is the way to go.” Good luck!

Could also look at honest jobs, since all companies who post there are second chance employers. I'm confused by the 20 years ago comment but recently released. If you have any charges that are from over 7 years ago, I would not disclose them. If you are going to disclose, I would not disclose to the hiring manager that you're interviewing with because they are (in most instances) not HR, so not really trained on how to handle that sort of information. Unfortunately, this could evolve into a bias or discrimination, even though you are qualified for the job, and your previous conviction(s) are not related to what the jobs you are interviewing for.

Most employers have job applications that ask " Have you had a felony conviction in the last seven years? If so when? If you were incarcerated 20 years ago, you haven't had a conviction in the last seven years so I wouldn't check/answer the question. Some states have laws that "ban the checkbox". What will flag you is lack of recent employment history. When asked, Simply say " I made a mistake in my early life and have worked hard to make sure that that never happens again. I've learned to succeed by having patience, drive, and integrity and that's what I am offering your company. Have a firm(not painful) handshake and look them in the eye when answering their questions.

You don’t have to inform them. I had two felonies over 10 years ago. Most states aren’t going to look past 5 years. Federal jobs are typically 10 years. You’re good. You did your time and paid your dues. You’re not that same person anymore. My last background check was two years ago and nothing came up.

If you were recently released with in 7 years it could show on bg check. Be honest and up front when asked about work history. To above points you’ve moved on and learned from mistake. Owning the mistake and making a positive will go a long way.

What you need to do is find a way to change your felony into a 3 minute Oscar Nominating story. What happened? Did you steal a car? Talk about how you were with the wrong crowd, you stole the car together even though you knew it was wrong, you went to jail, you found Jesus, you gained lots of wisdom, and now you're even thankful you were caught because it turned you into who you are today! Not exactly what happened? Doesn't matter. Just say the crime, then use a similar story in your own words. If you're applying for a job in the south, that "finding JESUS" part works great. If you're in the north, replace it with "understanding diversity and equity". Look up the story of Dave's KILLER Bread. Guy went to jail for murder, but turned it into a nice story when he got out, and now he's making millions. If you make it brief, then pivot to your skills, the interviewer is going to know that you're trying to avoid it, and whatever it is, it's going to count against you 10 times as much.

Don't say a thing unless they ask...PERIOD! If it is on an application....answer it truthfully. it's that simple.

When you say “recently released” are you referring to an expungement? Bc that is what you need to do in order to be sure your slate is wiped clean with no trace. These people don’t know what they’re talking about when they say it won’t show bc it’s 10yrs old. If it’s a legit company, they will for sure invest in a background check that will dig up every nook and cranny. If it’s a smaller company though - you’re likely in the clear bc in comparison to corporate, they will have less funds allotted towards an in-depth screening. Regardless, the golden rule is don’t say sh*t, period. Instead of rehearsing a BS story, file an expungement. You will get the job and most importantly, keep your integrity intact for the duration of your employment there. Good luck!

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