Mark was denied many jobs because of his background, and had difficulties finding employment meeting his qualifications. Honest Jobs helped him feel more at ease about his situation and he found a job where his skills are greatly appreciated. Hear him tell his story in the video below:
Interview Transcript:
What was your experience looking for a job before you found Honest Jobs?
Mark: “Obviously, I have a criminal history. But aside from that, I'm really experienced. I've done sales my whole life. I got an Associate's degree. I got a job when I got out, but after about a month I was fired because of my background. I just got my uniform with my name on it, went in the bathroom, put it on, came out. And he basically just pulled me on the side. And he asked me what my charges were. Over 20 people hit me back because of my resume on Indeed. Once I told them about my criminal history, not one person responded. I have seven kids, I have to have a considerably high income to take care of those seven children. So, it's just hard because I'm having to take jobs that are lesser. Even though I qualify for higher jobs, I'm not getting a fair shake because of my criminal history. But thankfully I was able to find Honest Jobs and move forward."
Tell us about your new job!
Mark: “They started me off at $16.25. I just got offered a dollar more because they train you in different aspects of the job. I have full benefits, medical, dental, vision, things of that nature.”
Would you recommend Honest Jobs to other formerly incarcerated job seekers?
Mark: “For sure, for sure. Just because the quickness with you guys getting back to me, the recruiters that you have. They exceeded expectations of what I even imagined with Honest Jobs. Obviously, you guys work with people who've been in the criminal justice system, so I just felt more at ease. I’m just happy that I found Honest Jobs. Shout out to Honest Jobs. What you guys are doing and what you guys are trying to promote, I'm all for it. You are trying to give people who have made mistakes a second chance and to get out there and make legitimate money. So you don't have to fall back into whatever lines you were in before. So you don’t re-offend and end up back in jail. Just keep it up.”
Do you have a message to job seekers?
Mark: “Just don't stop trying. Whatever your motivation is or whatever you're trying to ascertain… There may be a bump in the road, but it’s always gonna get better. There's always gonna be something out there that you can lean on so you can grow. So no matter what it is, whatever your charge is, whatever the case is, you can do better and you can be better as a person.”
Do you have a message to employers?
Mark: “Give us a chance. I'm a good worker. I shouldn't have to go and do backbreaking labor for the rest of my life. I have a brain. I know how to use it. I know how to apply it. Just because I made a mistake, that doesn't bat me out who I am as a person. I shouldn’t have to live with my mistakes, I already did my time. I don't know what more I can give somebody, but I already did my time and I should be able to work a job like everybody else and get a fair shot.”