Now’s not an easy time to be searching for a job for most people – but for Janelle, it’s even harder. You see Janelle, has a criminal record. A number of years ago, she formed a gambling habit – it got so bad that it led her to steal from an employer to feed her addiction. Before that, she’d never done anything wrong…

She’s since cleaned up her lifestyle. Two years ago, she went into Gamblers Anonymous as well as a long term rehabilitation program that helped her get her life on track again. She deeply regrets her past but is looking forwards - she’s come back to faith in God, is committed to a church, and these days is a different person.

Facts are though, she still has this mark against her name. So when it comes to applying for jobs and filling out a form with a Yes-No question about criminal history, she has to be completely honest. It’s become the one thing that’s causing many potential employers to dismiss her as an option.

Janelle just wants a second chance. What can she do? 
Let’s give her some second opinions.

• Should Janelle continue to disclose her criminal history? Or should she hide it unless it comes up in a specific question?

• Janelle says the 12 step program taught her the importance of honesty. If she were to hide the criminal record now, chances are it might raise itself in the future anyway , so is she better off just being honest?

• If you’ve got a similar story, with something in your past like a crime, or an addiction perhaps, what did you do when it came to finding work? How did you find your second chance?

• I’d love to hear your perspective if you’re an employer too. What could Janelle be doing to improve her chances?

• And, how much do employers need to know about a person’s past? Are there things that don’t matter when it comes to doing certain types of work?

• To what extent – both legally and ethically - do they have a right to now about an employer’s history?

EXPERT OPINION

Our Second Opinion ‘expert’ this week was Wayne Vitnell, who’s had 20 years experience in the field of employment… He runs a business coaching long-term unemployed people and helping them find jobs…

His advice for Janelle included the following:

* Be honest - if you don't disclose your history now you may have to later anyway.

* Be clear on what your skills are and target jobs that suit.

* Tailor-make your resume to suit the job you're applying for

* And remember that there are other ways to find work other than sending in resumes - this is not always the best avenue for someone with a criminal record...

* Explore the "hidden" job market - finding opportunities by word of mouth, approaching organisations for possible work, etc.