When returning to the workforce after being incarcerated, viable employment is a critical part of reducing the risk of recidivism. This can be an especially daunting challenge if you have been incarcerated for a long period of time. While there are several resources available to find gainful employment, STAYING employed can be a challenge. The key things to remember as you are building a reputation at your new employer are to Be There, Take All You Can Get, and Be Courteous.
Be There
"One of the best pieces of advice I have received since being released, is simple…Be There. If you’re coming home and intend on making more money eventually, being promoted, or otherwise advancing, show up to work!" ~ Turbo James.
Oftentimes, the only employment opportunities the formerly incarcerated are able to easily obtain are those that require manual labor. "While this can be taxing on our bodies and our minds, the benefit to us is…THEY NEED A BODY." ~ Turbo James
Even if you think you’re not a “good body” or don’t have a high level of skills, the one thing you do have is a body…meaning that you can Be There! And sometimes, that's really all they need.
Take All You Can Get Take advantage of every training course, education course, certifications, and other learning opportunities for credentials that you can. Anyone that you can get, whether on or off the clock is another addition to your toolbox so that you can expand your mind, and most importantly, have reason to deserve more. "Even if they are little bitty credentials…take em’ so that when you ask for a raise, there’s no question that you should get one." ~ Turbo James Look for every opportunity to deserve more. You’re giving yourself something to be proud of and you’re giving your supervisor something that they can tell the big boss why you deserve a raise.
Be Courteous It can be easy to blow things off and not think twice about it; especially when it comes to things we are not necessarily interested in. Sometimes we have plans that simply can’t workout, whether it is for a job interview or meeting up with family or friends. But when it comes to your employment, it is essential that you always remain courteous. Don’t burn bridges that you don’t know whether you will have to cross again. If you cannot make a scheduled interview, you should let the hiring manager know as soon as you realize you can’t make it. Furthermore, if you find another job, be courteous to your current employer and notify them as soon as you can. While it is customary to give a notice, that is not always possible, so it is important to convey your appreciation for the job opportunity while letting them know that you unfortunately have to begin with your new employer sooner than later.
In closing, the bottom line is that it is very important to establish a reputation as someone that is dependable and reliable. Show up to work, stay learning, and be courteous. It will take you a long way in your journey to stable employment.
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