Employment is possible for felons returning from prison at a business like Goodwill.
The issue is whether or not Goodwill runs background checks.
Let’s look at this question.
In this blog post, we’ll cover the following:
- Does Goodwill Actually Hire Felons?
- Understanding the Application Process
- What to Know About the Goodwill Background Check
- Does the Type of Felony Matter?
- Can You Run a Background Check on Yourself?
- What to Do if You Fail the Goodwill Background Check
Contents
Does Goodwill Actually Hire Felons?
Yes, Goodwill actually does hire felons.
The company is known as a strong second-chance employer, giving felons a chance to work there.
Goodwill states their hiring policy regarding felons on their website.
This policy indicates that they understand the challenges people with a criminal record face as they seek to re-enter the community.
They provide services to these individuals in the process.
Their hiring policy is in effect during ordinary times, but it may differ in times of economic uncertainty.
Understanding the Application Process
Goodwill frequently hires employees to work in donation centers and stores throughout the U.S.
Workers may help customers find items, work as cashiers, or set up displays.
You must be at least 16 years old to work at Goodwill.
The company looks for employees who have reliable transportation, who can work weekends and evenings in addition to daytime hours.
Goodwill considers teamwork, customer service skills, and outgoing personalities as important qualities.
The application for employment at Goodwill includes questions regarding “Crimes Against Persons.”
This is asking whether you have ever been convicted of a felony.
If you answer “Yes,” then you must provide an explanation along with relevant dates.
The hiring process at Goodwill typically includes an online screening by a recruiter.
If you meet the minimum requirements for the job, your application will be forwarded to the hiring manager.
The hiring manager will review the application and will contact you if you are selected for an interview.
In the interview you will be asked to respond to questions regarding what you know about the company, how you handle stress, and why you are qualified for the position among other things.
What to Know About the Goodwill Background Check
As an applicant at Goodwill, you will be required to undergo a criminal history background check.
Typically, Goodwill runs a background check after a conditional offer of employment has been made.
If a job is offered, you will be asked to consent to a background check.
That makes it extremely important to answer all questions on the application regarding criminal history truthfully.
Not doing so will lead to your being turned down for a job there.
Of course, refusing to give permission for a background check will also result in a rejection.
A routine background check at Goodwill takes approximately one week.
Does the Type of Felony Matter?
The Goodwill corporate policy is to consider any felony conviction on a case-by-case basis.
Typically, Goodwill considers the amount of time since the conviction as well as the nature and severity of that conviction.
The type of felony does make a difference.
Typically, Goodwill does not hire felons that have a theft charge on their criminal record.
Other felonies that will likely cause difficulties in getting a job at Goodwill are ones that involve harming other people.
Such violent felonies and sexual offenses will not be acceptable.
Other than those, most felonies will be considered for a position at Goodwill.
Of course, if it is a position involving a driving offense, chances for being hired as a driver at Goodwill are not good.
With their stated stance on hiring felons, Goodwill will hire a number of felons for positions.
Goodwill is also known for helping felons sometimes even before their release from prison to prepare them for the transition back to society and acquiring the skills to succeed.
What to Do if You Fail the Goodwill Background Check
It’s important to remember that you might not pass the Goodwill background check.
Even after taking the step of running your own check, Goodwill could still not hire you based on those results.
After all, they don’t hire all felons.
If you aren’t hired, it isn’t the end of the world.
You can challenge the background check results if you think there was a mistake made in your background check.
Regardless, you can learn from your experience, and be ready for the next job application.
There are jobs available with other employers.
Look in other areas and find a specific job that might suit you better.
Don’t give up.
There is an employer who will give you a chance.
You just haven’t found that one yet.
It takes perseverance, but you have to be persistent.
Keep on looking until you find the one that will give you an opportunity.
So what do you think about this blog post about whether Goodwill runs background checks?
Have you or someone you know had Goodwill run a background check?
What was that like and what happened with it?
Please tell us in the comments below.
