Resources for the Unemployed

Finding a Job if You Have a Criminal Record

National H.I.R.E.
A national clearinghouse for information and an advocate for policy change developed to increase the number and quality of job opportunities available to people with criminal records by changing public policies, employment practices and public opinion; also provides training and technical assistance to agencies working to improve the employment prospects for people with criminal records.

Wisconsin State Resources
Wisconsin state support for ex-offenders returning to work.

Criminal Records and Employment
Produced by a Washington, D.C. Employment Justice Center, much of this document relates specifically to D.C. criminal records; however, it does have useful information on how to read your record, how to explain your criminal record, what to put on a job application, and a list of fields you will not be able to work in if you have a criminal record.

Is a Criminal Record Keeping You Unemployed?
The second page of this pamphlet gives advice about how to fill out an application and how to answer interview questions.

How to Take Care of a Weakness on Your Resume
From Monster.com, tips on how to find a job if you have a criminal record, how to present yourself to your best advantage, and what prospective employers can legally ask.

Employment Background Checks: A Jobseeker's Guide
Information about why employers conduct background checks and what is included in background checks.

Don't forget to visit your local library for help with your job research, or visit our Job and Career Resources page.