Making Connections for Job Hunting Success
If you are a convicted felon, you’ve probably experienced the frustrating process of trying to find a job. You send in a great resume and provide glowing recommendations. You complete a perfect interview and the employer is beaming as you walk out the door. Then, however, comes the background check. When an employer checks your background and that felony pops up, your chances for landing your dream job might slip quickly down the drain. The problem for many employers is not that they are prejudiced against felons or criminals or necessarily that they believe you will have a relapse. The issue is that they must protect the integrity of their company by effectively managing risk. Many employers simply feel that hiring a felon is too great a risk. However, by making connections in the business community, you can prove to an employer that you are a wise decision instead of a risky one.
Be Friendly and Meet New People
Business networking is a very important part of landing a job. If you fail to network you might find that you have no resources to go on when you begin your job search. Networking allows you to get your foot in the door and can help you to stand out positively amongst a crowd of job applicants. If you want to start networking, the first thing you need to do is get friendly. The friendlier you are and the more willing you are to meet new people and form new relationships, the more likely you are to make a connection that will help you in your career.
Remember Names and Faces
Meeting people will get you nowhere if you cannot remember the names and faces of people you meet. Establish a mnemonic device that will help you remember names and faces and recall where you met specific people.
Don’t Be Afraid to Name Drop
When you interview, don’t be afraid to drop a few names and let a potential employer know that you are connected. Even if you are a felon, if you have a personal relationship with an employer’s associate, that may be enough to tip the scales in your favor.
