How to Apply for a Job if You Have a Criminal Record

If you have a criminal past, then you may find that getting a job can be a little tricky. But we at CBScreening can help you put your best foot forward and assist you in your efforts to get back into employment.

Whether you need help finding a job with a criminal record or are considering offering a person with a criminal history a job, read on for our background screening advice.

The Law on Disclosing a Criminal History

If you are applying for a job, it is worth remembering that unless it is specifically stated, you don’t have to tell an employer anything regarding your criminal history unless they ask.

Some organisations will ask about a criminal record once an applicant becomes successful and is offered the job, while some will query an applicant’s criminal record at the first stage of application and before any necessary employment screening, whereas some organisations will not check or ask at all.

However, if a DBS check is required as part of the hiring process, any past convictions, cautions or reprimands will be revealed, so it may be better to explain these to a potential employer beforehand so they can be put in the right context.

If you are applying for positions in the legal, accounting or professional educational sector, applicants should be aware that these jobs are listed as an exception to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) and will require you to declare any past convictions, spent or not.

However, should you apply for these positions and are worried about having a few speeding tickets or another minor traffic offence, you will not have to disclose these when applying.

How to Disclose a Criminal Record to an Employer

It is important to mention your history but remember not to dwell and focus on it too much as your criminal history will almost certainly be more of an issue to you than your potential employer. Instead, try to explain any previous criminal convictions and make it into a positive aspect of your character and development. Be sure to tell a potential employer what you have learnt from your previous experience and then continue with your interview and application process as any other candidate would, focusing on why you’d be perfect for the job.

If your CV is questioned due to unexplained gaps in your work history, you could tell the truth and be upfront, or, as there is no legal obligation to disclose a conviction, you could say you were ‘not able to work due to personal circumstances’. If you do decide to be upfront, why not use your covering letter as a chance to reassure employers that it is in your past. But don’t make excuses and attempt to shift blame or protest your innocence as that could imply a lack of accountability and acceptance, implying to a potential employer that your past is still an issue to you.

If you do get rejected for a position you applied for, do not automatically assume it is because of your criminal past. There are numerous reasons why an applicant might not be suitable, ranging from a lack of experience or another applicant is better qualified. Persistence is key in this regard and remember that only a select few professions, like the police or prison service, will not hire anyone with a criminal past.

Some organisations will have a set policy for how to handle a situation like this but will not automatically stop you from working there. Each individual’s circumstances will be taken into account. This is common with jobs such as nursing or local authority positions.

Hiring Someone with a Criminal Past

Are you an employer considering whether to hire an experienced job applicant who has spent some time in jail? Well, we can’t make that choice for you. We can, however, ensure you have all the facts you need to make an informed decision.

We are experts in employment screening and run tens of thousands of DBS checks every year. Outsource your background checks and referencing to us and make your hiring process much less stressful. For more information, click ‘read more’ below.