Starting over after prison isn’t easy, but landing a job is one of the biggest steps toward stability and independence. It’s more than just a paycheck—it’s a fresh start and a way to build your future. But if it’s been a while since you’ve had to apply for jobs, the process might feel overwhelming. Where do you start? Who’s hiring? What should you say about your past?
Take a deep breath. You’re not alone, and there’s a clear path forward. Let’s break it down the first steps to finding a job after prison so you can start moving toward employment with confidence.
Step 1: Know Your Rights – The Fair Chance Act
In California, you have the right to be considered for jobs based on your skills—not just your past. Thanks to the Fair Chance Act (also called “Ban the Box”), most employers cannot ask about your criminal record until after they’ve made you a job offer.
This means:
• You get a fair shot to showcase your skills first
• Employers must evaluate you based on your qualifications
• You have the right to explain your story before they run a background check
If an employer asks about your record too soon, you can report it to the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH). Learn more about your rights here.
Step 2: Build a Strong Foundation
Before applying, make sure you’re job-ready. Employers look for reliable, motivated workers, so preparing in advance will give you an advantage.
• Create a strong resume – Even if you haven’t worked recently, your skills matter. If you took classes, learned a trade, or had responsibilities while incarcerated, those experiences can be valuable on a resume.
• Practice introducing yourself – Employers often ask, “Tell me about yourself.” Prepare a response that highlights your strengths and focuses on what you bring to the table.
• Sharpen your interview skills – Practice answering common interview questions, including how to discuss your past in a way that shows your growth and readiness to work.
Step 3: Find Employers Who Hire People with Records
Some companies actively seek employees who are reentering the workforce. These employers are focused on your skills and work ethic, not just your past.
Where to start:
• On My Grind Career Network – Connects job seekers with employers who believe in second chances. Learn more
• Chrysalis – Provides job training and paid transitional employment. Learn more
• Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) – Specializes in reentry job placement. Visit their site
• CalJOBS – California’s statewide job database. Search for jobs
Applying to jobs where employers already support reentry increases your chances of finding work faster.
Step 4: Create a Job Search Plan
• Set a weekly goal – Aim to apply for at least five to ten jobs per week
• Check email daily – Employers often reach out via email first, so check it regularly
• Follow up – If you don’t hear back in a week, call and ask about your application status
• Be ready for interviews – Even if it’s a phone screening, be prepared to highlight your strengths
A job search takes time, but every application brings you closer to your goal. Stay persistent, and don’t get discouraged.
Get Support and Take the First Step
On My Grind is here to help. Our Career Kickstart program provides resume assistance, interview coaching, and direct job connections. Whether you need help with job searching, preparing for interviews, or navigating employment barriers, we’ll guide you through the process.
Resume Resources:
Resume.io – AI-powered resume templates and writing assistance. Offers suggestions to improve formatting and content.
2. Zety Resume Builder – Helps create a professional resume with AI-driven suggestions for wording and structure.
3. Novoresume – A simple yet powerful AI resume builder with tailored suggestions for each section.
4. Rezi – AI-generated resumes designed to pass applicant tracking systems (ATS).
5. Jobscan – Compares your resume against job descriptions to improve keyword matching and increase chances of getting noticed.
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