Everyone deserves a second chance! 💁🏻♀️ Well, maybe not that ex of yours who cheated on you with your best friend…Or your best friend who cheated on you with your ex! Now that's one hell of a triangle. 😑🔺
April is officially called the “Second-Chance” month to highlight the importance of hiring the formerly-incarcerated. ⛓️ Let's dive into second-chance hiring and the pros and cons.
Here’s Five Fast Facts about second-chance employment:
- 🚌 Struggle Bus - According to recent stats, there are 11 million jobs open in the US yet but only six million unemployed workers. Companies all over the country are struggling to hire for key positions, a problem that started during the pandemic and still continues. Unfortunately, research also shows that having a criminal past can reduce your shot at a second interview by 50%.
- 💼 Moving On - About one in every three adults (an estimated 70 million people) in the United States have arrest or conviction records. That's a huge pool of talent on the sidelines and most of these folks are ready to rejoin the workforce and get on with their lives.
- 🍨 I'll Take Three Scoops - Over the last several years, big companies have put second-chance hiring programs into place. Companies include Chobani, Ben & Jerry's, and US Rubber Recycling.
- 👷 Get To Work - Supporters of second-chance hiring say it helps employers staff up in a tricky post-pandemic labor market. It's also a win for taxpayers, as second-chance hiring leads to reduced prison costs.
- 👀 Bombastic Side Eye - Those opposed to second-chance hiring believe it's risky, as former criminals may relapse back into their old habits. Some worry ex-offenders may bring dangerous behavior into the workplace, placing other employees in harm's way.
🔥Bottom line: While there are some risks involved with second-chance hiring, formerly-incarcerated people looking to turn their lives around deserve a good career. Companies in favor of second-chance hiring get to fill their open positions while doing something good for the community. Are you looking for a new job? You might want to rethink rage applying. Oh, and make sure you check for red flags before you sign that offer letter. Toxic workplaces can do a number on you!
Have you or someone you know benefitted from second-chance employment?
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