Arrest Records - How Business Owners Can Respond to Applicants With a Criminal Record
Arrest records can be a real wet blanket when it comes to hiring employees. It may deter some employees, while others may want to give a guy a break and take a risk. In the end, it's up to you what you want to make of someone's arrest records.
Imagine this scenario: you are a business owner and are hiring new workers for a restaurant you've just opened. You're looking for people who are friendly, customer-oriented, and hard-working. Out of all your applicants, you take a liking to a young man who fits all your requirements and seems eager to get to work. Then, after conducting a criminal record check, you find out he has two arrest records. What do you do?
In most cases, business owners don't bat an eyelid. As soon as they see some arrest records the applicant's CV goes straight in the trash. Whoever was next in line is hired. But is that completely fair? And does refusing to hire a person with jail records do the country any favors? What of the millions of people who have a criminal record but want to move on from their past and live productive lives?
Arrest Records - What to Do with Them
First of all, you obviously have to analyze just what went wrong with this person. Did he beat someone senseless? Does he have a history of violence? Does his arrest records show him to be a big threat to you and your business?Basically, you're looking to see if his misdemeanor was a major or minor one. If your applicant has a history of major offenses, then it makes sense to pass on him in favor of somebody more straight-headed. But what if all he has are a couple of speeding charges? Unless he's applying for a driving job, perhaps it's not asking to much to review his application and see if you can give him a chance?
No one can force you to hire a person with a criminal record of course. And your safety, as well as the success of your business, often hinges on sound decision making. But what if your applicant is genuinely committed to a productive life? What if he's firmly put his past behind him and wants to move on as a good citizen?
Arrest Records - Arrest their Attention
One thing you can do is use the arrest records in a positive manner; i.e., by sitting down with your applicant and addressing your concerns. Ask straight questions and gauge his answers. You don't have to be an expert in psychology to assess his responses (although it might help!) Rather, read his body language, think about the kind of answers he provides. Is he non-attentive? Can he look you in the eye when you ask important questions about his past? Is he uncooperative? Be observant at all times. If he's willing to talk about his past, is contrite (and not full of excuses), if he demonstrates responsibility and can face the facts of his situation with resolve, then there may be a chance for this person yet.Of course, we're not saying that just because he can answer your questions in a bold and charismatic way means he's fully reformed and ready to change the world! There are plenty of scumbags who can talk the feathers off a chicken and make him look like he donated them. Many court records will demonstrate this!
At the end of the day, you have to make a decision. You're not obligated to go out of your way in giving people with jail records a second chance. You don't have to employ anyone who's got a conviction on their record. But at the very least, you can weigh things. And if you wish to help people by giving them a second chance at work, remember, you have the power to do so.
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