About Andy Expertise I can help prepare candidates for job interviews; assist in discussing problems with your supervisors or peers; help in creating a resume that gets results; answer general work related questions.
Experience I have been in a management leadership role for the past 30 years. I have extensive knowledge re: the interview process, problem solving, team building, communcation with executive management, company mergers, downsizing, outsourcing of jobs, project management, disaster recovery, office politics, management consulting, business ethics,career changes, job relocation to another part of the country & becoming an agent for change within a corporation.
Job Hunting Tips - resumes for people with poor work history and/or convictions
Expert: Andy - 10/18/2007
Question I work for Probation & Parole and want to help offenders to find good jobs. Do you have any advice on creating resumes for those with sketchy work histories and past convictions?
Answer Hi Tasha,
I would accentuate accomplishments they may have achieved in previous jobs as well as their strong skill sets & training. I would not mention the convictions but have a prepared cover letter that will explain that a mistake was made, a lesson was learned & that the applicant is ready to again become a productive member of society.
To gather this info for the resume, you will have to absolutely pick their brains. Ask them to explain a typical day in a former job; ask about their job responsibilities; ask what they liked/disliked about those positions. Most people don’t realize the hidden skills they possess & in many cases it has to be drawn out of them.
I think it’s great that you are looking to help those in need & I am willing to assist you if you wish. We’ve all made mistakes in life & a 2nd chance should be given to those who truly want to turn their life around. Having an offender join a volunteer group where they help others shows potential employers that the person is paying back their debt to society & it also begins building a positive network of people that can become a asset to the offender when recommendations are requested.
I can help develop resumes from the information you provide me & it would be a great step forward for those who need the help. If you are interested, please let me know. If not, I hope you find the info I provided helpful & wish you all the best.
