Advocacy Corner: How to Market Yourself as a Valuable Hire
By Barbara Ornelas, Reentry Advocacy Fellow
In today’s job market, many employers are looking for dedicated and reliable employees, and you have a lot to offer. As someone with a criminal background, you can still find meaningful employment by marketing yourself effectively. Here are some key points to help you communicate your value to potential employers and make a compelling case for your hire.
Firstly, it’s important to acknowledge your past while focusing on how you’ve grown since then. Employers appreciate honesty and responsibility. You can say something like, “I made mistakes in the past, but I’ve learned from them and have taken steps to ensure they won’t happen again. I am committed to making a positive contribution to your company.”
Explain how hiring you can benefit the employer. Mention the incentives available to them, like fidelity bonding. You might say, “The Texas Workforce Commission offers fidelity bonding, which acts like an insurance policy for employers. It protects the company against potential dishonest acts for the first six months at no cost. This coverage is usually up to $5,000 and has no deductible. It provides peace of mind and encourages employers to give individuals like me a second chance.”
Additionally, bring up the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC), which is another strong incentive for employers. You could explain, “By hiring me, your company could qualify for the Work Opportunity Tax Credit, a federal tax credit available to employers who hire individuals from certain targeted groups, including those with criminal backgrounds. This can significantly reduce the cost of hiring and training new employees.”
Highlight the factors that reduce your risk of reoffending, showing the employer that you are a low-risk hire. You might say, “Research shows that the longer a person goes without a new conviction, the less likely they are to reoffend. It’s been [X amount of time] since my last conviction, and during that time, I’ve been focused on improving myself and contributing positively to my community.”
Emphasize your work ethic and past job performance. For example, “In my previous jobs, I have demonstrated reliability, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to doing my best. I have positive references from past employers who can vouch for my performance and dedication.”
Show that you are motivated and ready to be a loyal and productive employee. You could say, “I am highly motivated to succeed and prove myself. Gainfully employed individuals like me are less likely to reoffend, which benefits not only the company but also the community.”
Lastly, express your willingness to undergo additional training or probationary periods. For instance, “I am open to any additional training or probationary period that would help demonstrate my commitment and fit for this role. I am eager to learn and grow with your company.”
By using these points to market yourself, you can effectively communicate your value to potential employers. Remember, you have a lot to offer, and with the right approach, you can find a company that recognizes and appreciates your potential.