Felons in Philly: From "Orange is the New Black" to "Office Chic" - Yes, Jobs Exist!
So you stumbled out of the joint, blinking in the sunlight like a confused owl. Congratulations on re-entering the land of the free (and hopefully gainfully employed). But let's be honest, the job market can be tougher than a prison cafeteria steak. Especially with a felony on your record.
Fear not, my friend! Philadelphia's a surprisingly forgiving city, and there are plenty of companies who are cool with your checkered past (as long as it doesn't involve, you know, stealing the Liberty Bell). Here's how to navigate the job hunt like a champ:
Hitting the Streets (Metaphorically, of Course!)
First things first, ditch the orange jumpsuit. Unless you're going for a Halloween costume contest (and even then, it's a risky choice). Tailor your resume, highlighting your skills and experience, not your cell block number. Did you lead the prison sewing circle? Boom! Mention your leadership and problem-solving abilities. Were you the undisputed arm-wrestling champion? Highlight your strength and determination (though maybe downplay the "arm-wrestling" part).
Tip: Skim once, study twice.
Companies Who Won't Judge Your Book by its... Well, You Get It.
There are some companies in Philly who are champions of second chances. The City of Philadelphia itself has a Fair Chance Hiring Initiative [Fair Chance Hiring Initiative | Programs and initiatives - City of Philadelphia, phila.gov] that offers incentives to businesses who hire folks like you. Organizations like Idealist [Second Chance Jobs for Felons - Idealist, idealist.org] can connect you with employers who are open to ex-offenders.
Who Needs a Fancy Degree When You Can Lift 50 Lbs?
Tip: Read carefully — skimming skips meaning.
Okay, maybe a degree can't hurt, but there are tons of great jobs in Philly that don't require one. Think construction, warehouses, or driving a truck (just don't use it to, you know, break out any old "friends"). Manual labor is a great option, and hey, you might even get those guns you sculpted in the yard looking even more impressive.
 |
 |
| What Companies Hire Felons In Philadelphia |
Bonus Tip: Be Upfront and Honest
Tip: Jot down one takeaway from this post.
Most companies will ask about your background during the interview. Don't lie about it! Be upfront, explain the situation, and focus on how you've grown and what you can offer the company.
FAQ: How to Nail the Felon-Friendly Job Hunt
Q: How to find out which companies in Philly hire felons?A: Check out the Fair Chance Hiring Initiative [Fair Chance Hiring Initiative | Programs and initiatives - City of Philadelphia, phila.gov] and Idealist [Second Chance Jobs for Felons - Idealist, idealist.org] for a good starting point.
QuickTip: Read in order — context builds meaning.
Q: How to write a resume with a felony on my record?A: Focus on your skills and experience, not your conviction. Highlight your achievements and use strong action verbs.
Q: What if I don't have a college degree?A: There are tons of great jobs in Philly that don't require a degree. Explore opportunities in construction, warehouses, or driving.
Q: Do I have to tell the employer about my felony?A: It depends on when they ask. Generally, be honest and upfront about your background, but focus on your qualifications and how you can be an asset to the company.
Q: I feel discouraged, any words of encouragement?A: You got this! There are companies out there who value your skills and experience, felony or not. Keep your head up, stay positive, and you'll find the perfect job to kickstart your new life. Now go out there and show them what you're made of (besides, you know, prison-grade steel)!
 |
