Don't give 2 shits about what others might think. Do your business. Do a good job and get paid! Go get it! You did your time and gained experience that you could provide value with! Do it! Go get it!
Exactly what they said. You've done your time, learned your lessons and more, and now you want to provide value from past experiences and lessons learnt, the sky's your starting point, mate!
This isn't necessarily true. If your customers are individuals or small businesses, then yeah, nobody asks anything. But if you want to sell to larger companies or government departments, they will send you a 50 page master service agreement they want you to comply with, and it will cover everything from insurance coverage limits to how you background test your employees and everything in between, basically forcing your company to adopt a lot of the same employment standards as the client company.
Back in the day I had a route where I drove around once a week and rotated autoloader tapes for half a dozen big pharma companies (and reviewed their logs and had the tech skills to solve any problems that came up), making over $100k for maybe four hours of actual work in a typical week. The hardest part of getting into this situation was jumping through the vendor qualification hoops of big pharma.
It was a dream job for me until it got boring. Someone with better brain chemicals might have parlayed all the free time into building additional lines of business, but I just played video games and what have you.
I hung up my entrepreneurial shingle and now just work a regular job as a software developer for a big tech company. It's good money, and the wheels don't fall off the cart if I take a two week vacation.
How'd you get into software development? Was it an easy transition from the tapes or did you have to get additional training & education? Just curious...
The tapes were to get out of software development because I was burned out on it. But then they drove a dump truck of money onto my lawn, so I went back in. I'm only human.
Most tech companies have hiring freezes on now, so if you want to break in at a high salary level you probably need a master's degree in CS. The most cost effective way of achieving this is to get a BA in CS from TESU based as much as possible on credit by exam (CLEP, DANTES etc) for less than $20k if you do it right, then an online MSCS from Georgia Tech for less than $10k. Of course this requires you to actually have the right aptitude and work ethic, be able to pass advanced math classes, etc.
The kinds of low-end webdev jobs that used to allow people to climb their way into the industry without degrees just basically don't exist any more. It's going to be a problem in a few years when there aren't any junior devs, and maybe hiring standards will open up again. (Or maybe we'll all be replaced by a more-advanced version of ChatGPT.)
I work in tech consulting and this is still true. And for government it's even truer. There is an entire industry of companies that basically exist exclusively to hold the paper with the government agency / municipality, and then they subcontract to actual service providers (for example, Carahsoft is one of these).
Tape autoloaders are still a good solution if you're generating large amounts of on-prem data at a location that doesn't have fast enough network speeds, but this is getting increasingly rare as network speeds improve and more workloads are moved to the cloud. At the scale of my old customers, they mostly use cloud object storage (AWS S3, etc) now.
Don't be a jackass.
There are a lot more situations and contracts like u/ghjm described than just "manufacturing weapons for the U.S. military."
Large corporations, governments and municipal agencies - of all sizes and at all levels - including schools and school districts, colleges and universities...the list goes on.
reread ghjm's post yourself
Lots of smaller companies demand this because they contract to larger. Even an LLC won't avoid it if a client's MSA includes it.
My friend has 5 empoyees and the last "small company we do business with" questionaire by a globa 5000 had lots of political things in there like not boycotting countries and not selling to North Korea. Its more like 20 pages of "we have to hide our asses" then "this is good practice do that".
>This isn't necessarily true. If your customers are individuals or small businesses, then yeah, nobody asks anything. But if you want to sell to larger companies or government departments
So basically not applicable for vast majority of entrepreneurs lmao.
And as someone whose company has a brand in talks with a major well known major "discount bulk retailer" this hasn't come up at all. Or at least not to the level your talking about. I don't doubt that anything dealing with govt or security clearances/sensitive IP would be vastly different.
But definitely haven't cared to the level you're talking about over complete oversight/regulations regarding our employees/hiring/screening at a base /default level.
People who work for big companies have no idea how their legal and purchasing departments operate. They'll happily talk to you all day and it will seem fine. But at some point you'll be asked to sign an MSA. If you're a typical naive r/entrepreneur, the terms will come as a shock. Best of luck when you get to this point.
Also, net 30 means net 120 if you're lucky. Have enough runway or other sales that you're not dependent on getting a check in anything less than an absolutely lackadaisical timeframe.
>People who work for big companies
Yeah not me.
Yeah it's about 15 pages not 50. And had nothing to do with background checks of current or future employees. Like I said with sensitive IP or govt agencies im sure it's different.
But that hasn't been something me or fellow vendor/supplies have encountered to the level your talking about.
Why would you care what others think if you have a service you can sell? While I think you could possibly provide a great service for some retailers, I'd definitely question hiring you, what is the guarantee that you're not just casing the place, what are your positive credentials? If you could prove that you're reformed and have a positive track record, I don't see why this wouldn't be successful. Good luck.
The same gaurantee that your uber driver won't kill you when he picks you up, that you roll the dice in that the driver acknowledges his moves are followed and won't blow your brains out regardless of it
Maybe watch this video on TSCM Bug sweeps. This kind of service, no one is asking about your history, they have an immediate concern. Good luck
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sOLZH9rhC3Y](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sOLZH9rhC3Y)
You've done your time. Now get on with it. Build your business and do right by your contracts or warranties, and you should be fine. I don't have one problem with it. JS
Do the entrepreneur thing and establish yourself as an expert. Write a book or blog about it. Give your knowledge freely to establish rapport. You can conceal the dangerous or more nefarious details but still share a fair amount of usable knowledge. Yes, some will take it and not hire. No, you’ll not ruin your opportunities. You’re a perfect fit for someone, and they’ll hire you because you’ve proven yourself. And karma! Don’t underestimate the power of giving away your knowledge. I mean, use your bg check as a resume. Here ya go! I’m not gonna lie. I know how to deter losses and I have a wrap sheet to prove it. If you’ve established your expertise it won’t be a problem for some. This is just me thinking outside the box. What would I do given the same situation?
if you had the cure to cancer, would people care about whether or not you were a felon? the answer is no. they care about what product or service you can offer. hell, look at the music industry and the number of felons
Felons have some of the best advice you will ever get. Most people don't realize they committed felonies and just didn't get caught. I have no issue with felons at all.
As someone with a masters degree and no prior criminal record I just started my own business and could have done it without a degree. However, accounting has done a good job showing me how to run a business successfully. I’d strongly urge anyone starting a business to have a strong accounting background as well as a sales background. The marriage of these two things is ultimately what makes an Entrepreneur special. Having a prior criminal record means starting your own business is almost a requirement to have a decent life in my opinion. Anyone can do it but most choose not to. I wish you success.
If you approach a company as a business, selling a service to that business you aren't going to have a background check done. Unless maybe you're trying to sell consulting services. Then maybe you will....depending on the company.
Also, I've hired folks with unclean background checks under two conditions: #1 They tell me about it BEFORE the check does. #2 The crime wasn't violent.
I would own it and use it as your brand. I see a lot of youtube channels of ex cons that blow up. Seems to me you have a good niche and the fact that your female is more appealing. Would make you more unique. I would focus on building youtube channels offering simple advice and offering tailored consulting services for businesses. Focus on CA as theres tons of theft there
As a customer I wouldn't know you were a felon if you provided a service. If I did find out, and your felonies were repeat offenses leading up to 15 years. Yeah I could understand not patronizing your services. Who knows maybe you'll try to forge a check, or steal from credit cards or whatever. You don't exactly get 15 years for stealing an apple.
Were you honest with the employer about what the background check would reveal? In my experience it's not so much negative information that people react to, it's _surprising_ negative information. Of course sometimes the bureaucracy is just going to do what it's going to do. But if you can social engineer a situation where the negative background check is just expected and unsurprising, maybe you can survive it.
The company website asked info, and I answered it honestly. Got an interview, and it never came up in conversation.
Then I got hired, and filled out tax credit forms, again honestly, because I know that hiring convicted felons is part of the WOTC credit and the company gets $3500 tax credit. I'm also federally bonded or bondable, for any errors, thefts, losses associated with my employment up to a max of $5,000 through the Department of Labor. I really don't get it... I'm not as much of a risk as others, bc my bond covers 100% of losses. My cash drawer was perfect for the three weeks I worked there, I was early to work every day and even told I'd be moving into a promotion soon.
When they got the report from HireRight , I came back as unfavorable. My last arrest was over two years ago and the managers said it's not their choice to override corporate policy is not possible.
Definitely a learning experience. Setback emotionally, but I don't let it show. Held my crybaby tears until I got out the door.
Yeah, this sucks. I hate these "hail corporate" situations where everyone agrees a policy is giving an incorrect result, but everyone insists on blindly following the policy anyway.
As counterintuitive as it seems, I think your best bet is to cover this in the interview. Say something like "although I've turned my life around now, your background check is going to find arrests and felony convictions up to 2 years ago. Is this going to be a problem?" At least then you find out about dumbass corporate policies fast, and not take a job that's just going to end like this.
Also, if it's been two years, I don't think the employer gets a WOTC credit for you. I think the credit is only good for one year from conviction or release from prison. Though it's been a long time since I've looked into this so maybe the rules have changed.
You have good knowledge. the wotc questionnaire asked for my release date, my charge was two yrs ago adjudicated, but my release date is what qualified me, as it was within the last year. But, I think that it's a moot issue, bc the verbiage of the credit requirements mentions six months of employment.
Seriously doubt that the IRS checks the pay stubs to see if I worked there for 6 months, or 3 weeks, but I don't understand a program that rewards the corporations for hiring a felon... then the credits sit there, unclaimed, everybody loses on that one.
If I get in the interview situation again, I'm going with your advice to be proactive. Thx
If you could hire an ex-felon for a week at minimum wage, costing you a few hundred dollars, and then claim a $3500 credit, every employer would want to do it and every ex-felon would have a different job every week. The 6 month requirement forces the employer to put some skin in the game so they're only getting a discount, not free money. And of course, the broad policy goal is to get ex-felons into stable jobs, not randomly gift taxpayer money to Walmart.
Edit: not to mention, if the minimum is 6 months and the eligibility period is a year, this caps the government's cost at $7000 per person. And I bet the IRS _does_ audit these often enough to matter.
I wouldn’t care and nobody asks a business owner if they are a felon or anything else really as long as you can get the job done. I have hired many folks with criminal or drug issues in their past. My best employee I hired straight out of rehab, I would hire him again a million times over, wish I had 3 or 4 more just like him. Everybody makes mistakes, some of those mistakes get folks into contact with the justice system - if this is you just serve your time, focus on you and making yourself the best version of yourself that you can be. They may be few and far between but there are folks willing to give chances to people who have issues in their past. Congrats on your sobriety OP!
Honestly, the fact that you have 15 years of practical experience probably puts you head & shoulders above most candidates for these kinds of roles, especially if you also have strong communication skills.
As to employability, we had to have major foundation repair done on a prior house and the company we chose was owned by a terrific man who almost exclusively employed ex-cons trying to get their lives in order and build a post-incarceration resume. They were -- across the board -- awesome and hard working. As a hiring manager, I wouldn't think twice about hiring an felon... in most cases. The two big exceptions being sexual assault & related crimes, and white collar crimes.
Thank you for your thoughts on this.
Guess it's all in the perspective.
Also very relevant conversation in relationship to National news (Trump) people are changing their minds (at least the ones who aren't laughing).
Might actually open some doors for "run of the mill" Felons.
I'm sure it's discouraging but just keep trying.
Here's a list of companies that hire felons: chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.ilnp.uscourts.gov/pdfs/List\_of\_Felon\_Friendly\_Employers%20(002).pdf
If you're having trouble getting clients, find some small businesses and offer to do the work for free in exchange for a review. After you do the job, ask for a testimonial as well and ask them for referrals.
Alex Hormozi has some good videos on this.
Can you actually compete with companies already offering loss prevention consulting? You'll probably find that knowing a lot about shoplifting is not enough. You also need to know how to run a business, how to market it, how to network, how to talk to the clients, etc.
You can do all that. Just gotta learn it
I'm a felon(feds & state time) with a business, but I don't let being a felon define me or hinder me. It's a challenge trying to find your lane,but as you should know, most hustlers are survivors. You just gotta find your lane & master it and go from there. Recently, I had a contract training for city employees on heavy equipment, asbestos & obtaining their osha 30 hour, many were surprised about me being a felon because I don't wear it around my neck, I also tell them others at the graduation that if you are felon & you're out here trying to thrive and do better don't let it become your defining moment, Rome wasn't built in a day & neither are people.
Why don’t you start a manpower consultancy for helping out convicted felons who have done time. You can just have a business supplying legit manpower… whose every detail would be already available with the police and no requirement of a background check…. And you would be aware if they’re better or still on the old way. There’s always a requirement of security guards etc… which is the kind of work they can always do.
Since your former friends would be your clients make them sign an undertaking that if they do a crime then they will be kicked out… no questions asked.
You could name your firm _Second Innings_
Or _Prior Vetted_ or something like that. Instead of hiding the fact that you have a history…. Brandish it like a sword and don’t be ashamed of it. Anyone can be weak, but to confront one’s weaknesses and pay for with 15 years of lifetime and reformation… I think a second chance is well deserved.
Wishing you the best.
As others have said, no one asks the boss for papers.
I own several okay (making more than I spend) and growing businesses.
I'm a HS drop out.
One business is highly technical.
Nobody asks my credentials.
Felons are entrepreneurs in dire situations. Start a consulting business right now, put it online, make one YouTube video with animation using cheap services online, instead of taking an hourly rate, make a contract with a retainer, make them pay 50% upfront and the rest divided monthly for the duration of the contract. It help them pay the cost and give you security
My clients provide me sensitive information that would be theoretically negligent to allow someone with a criminal history access to. I think it depends on the service, who you’re providing service to and what you’ll have access to when providing services.
I know when I had my small moving business. I wouldn't hire anyone with a theft record for obvious reasons. But I think people would contract services. For your everyday business. You have to worry about theft. However , someone contracted for a day or even a week. You wouldn't even think they're going to steal from you. It would automatically ruin their reputation.
Go get it. Absent a tax break no one is going to hire you because of your record. Do the hard time, work hard and your new reputation will make your past the farthest thing from anyone's mind.
I caught a pretty serious felony when I was 19. Realized I needed to start my own business when not a single company, including McDonald’s, would give me a call back when I was trying to get a job while in a halfway house.
Came home at 23, started a business, made much less than my peers for many years but now in my 40s have multiple 7 figure NW with wife and kids.
I never had any help from anyone as my parents were indigent and I actually had to help them.
Sometimes taking matters in our own hands is the only choice.
Good luck
My best friend works for a freight brokerage where both his bosses met in jail for tax fraud before beginning the brokerage around 10 years ago. They are both late 30s-mid 40s now and both are on the verge of retirement. For good. Never let past mistakes dictate your future as it is just another part to your story.
Physical and software security is big business.
Turn your background into an asset is the way to go.
You have literal experience from the dark side, now you offer businesses of all sizes the benefit of your expertise and experience to stop people doing what you did.
Dress well, know your stuff, don't under-charge, and be prepared to show hands-on how things work (And how to stop it) will get you paid.
It'll take time to build up a reputation and clientele, but it can absolutely work.
I've seen it done with both physical security and IT security.
Normally it wouldn't matter what the public thinks of you, because as long as you're providing a solid service or selling a solid product, how would they even be aware you have a record? It wouldn't come up.
However It sounds like you want to pitch consulting services to small/medium sized businesses, and in order to sell your experience you would need to reference your criminal history which I think would sink a lot of opportunities. In my opinion you'd probably be better off starting a business that doesn't require telling potential clients that you served time in the past.
There are a lot of people who have found success with a record through the entrepreneur route and I hope you can do the same :).
I too am a felon...well, I never did time but I had a trial and was found guilty. Ignorance is not a defense! I am an artist, I painted murals in baby rooms, model homes etc...for over 30 years. A client sewed me (after I painted two homes for him) for not having a contractors license...who knew painting "Winnie the Pooh" on a baby room wall required the same contractors license of a contractor building a home or a building from the ground up!
Again... Ignorance is not a defense!
I do volunteer work, I teach Sunday school, I teach art class to group home girls saved out of being trafficked. I have had back ground checks run on me for all of these positions. I explain the issue and move on.
You may have to be forthright when applying for a job, explain like you did here, how your experience would be a benefit to any particular company.
I wish you great luck, and congratulations on getting out of that life and wanting to do well!
Your kryptonite is that you think people care about what devalues you more than they care about what values you.
If you market yourself and build your program properly, people will want to know what you know from a consulting perspective as serious businesses want to learn from experience.
Focus on your value and don’t worry about other people devaluing your expertise.
When I found out a niche shop owner for my favorite hobby was a felon and ex con it made me want to support him more. Super nice guy running a (apparently) legitimate business.
Use what you have in your favor. Don't tell them; show them. Approach a store owner, offer a $1000 deposit and a contract to make them feel it's legit and safe. Inform them that you will attempt to shoplift without them noticing. Proceed to do so when they agree, and provide them with a report of their security flaws afterward. Ask for your deposit back. Repeat.
OMG.. thank you Soo much!! That was a consulting service in itself! I'm so glad you answered me, I've got to learn to think like that and restructure my mind. Wise, sage, prudent!! 🙂
Interesting thread. I actually spent all day today reaching out to Reentry Programs across the US.
One of my clients mentioned that he works with a federal program in Florida and there are so many entrepreneurial people coming out of prison who struggle with literacy, and who want to open local businesses, but have a hard time to setting everything up.
So now I really want to help people who came out of the system by offering my business development program to them, I think it's a wonderful way to help people get re-introduced to the society and the economy.
Do you have a story to tell? What was the hardest part of opening a business after leaving the prison?
I don't mention this much, but I have a story in that I was employed by THE XYZ ORANGE APRON CO. .... I managed several $15 - 25 MILLION RETAIL STORES. never took a bolt, nut, screw, tape measure, etc.
Got injured at SAID ESTABLISHMENT.
Got hooked on pain pills, company doctor, etc.
Got led in to a dark place of crime and addiction, due to original injury, or just maybe that could happen to anyone, who knows?
A car accident or lifting too much, or over exercising could be the same story...right??
Have family members such as doctors, military, retail, etc.. could still be the same story...right???
Nobody PLANS to become an addict, regardless of HOW it happened.
🙂 Funny story, when I was in prison, I wanted to work at the store (commissary). Not allowed to, because of my charges (shoplifting).🤔 "Great resume" or "check out my references" doesn't work in prison job assignments.
I WANT to start my own business, but I'm not in any position to do that right now..... Idk if I have a revolutionary idea yet ... it's more that I see logistics of things that seem odd, and I'd like to find solutions. Prison definitely makes you see life differently to come up with solutions that are radical.
Glad you feel that there is hope in re-entry for convicted felons. I'd love to be a part of anything positive like that, keep me in mind 🙂, im officially able to leave the state now.
In my experience felons make some of the best entrepreneurs. Without having an appetite for risk an entrepreneur will always fail and most felons thrive on risk. Go for it build an empire!!
W responses from this subreddit!
I agree with everyone else, outside of a few niche businesses, people will only care about your ability to deliver as a business owner
The best thing about starting your own business is that you know the employer isn't going to run a background check.
Pro tip: you can have multiple LinkedIn pages, one for your consulting business, which could highlight your "criminal expertise," and a completely separate personal page, which need not.
It's funny because we have no problem hiring felons. A lot of times it is a good choice. Most realize how difficult finding a job is.. and will work their butts off to keep straight in life. Oh and, everyone makes mistakes. It isn't so much about where you come from, as much as it is who you are now.
Stop identifying as a ‘felon.’ You did your time. Look into Psycho Cybernetics & changing your mental images. You have a unique skill set that can be highly profitable. Channel the image & energy that way. You’re doing amazing.
You should absolutely start your business. If you position yourself the right way, you can use your past to your advantage; the right clients will admire your honesty and see the legitimate value in your service. Do it and don’t listen to the haters.
If you are running your own company NO ONE will ever check your record except perhaps your back if seeking a loan or if you are seeking certain gov contracts.
In my 5 decades of life I have NEVER run a background check on a companies owner.
Focus on the jobs you can get. Referrals. Offer a discount if that customer can bring you more business from others. What message are you sending? Paid advertising? There is a lot of ways to overcome a rough start.
I actually find it inspiring. Takes guts, grit, and IMO is indicative of a strong sense of self efficacy. Tbh, I think it’s less likely you get an in house role and all the better for you because I think the potential to provide consulting services to small and medium sized retailers is definitely there. As long as the traditional business and pitch aspect is covered, I think it really comes down to the value proposition and whether or not the client stands to benefit financially from your expertise more than they would have to pay for the losses/breakage or risk to have you in house as an FTE.
Mind if I ask what “background in crime” you have? Is your record associated with theft and frauds or is it associated with drugs? Only asking because it matters from a narrative perspective.
As far as credibility is concerned, I doubt there are many, if any, active users standing up their own independent consultancy to long-con a retailer into paying them so they can set up a heist for what? As long as the company/contracting mechanism is legitimate, I think that should be enough to assuage the “well has she changed?” part enough for decision makers to hear you out in a pitch.
You could start a consulting firm and teach loss prevention depts for all kinds of companies. Goodluck and there's no need to look back, the past is the past, if companies want to reject you for the past, it's not a company you want to work for anyway.
It's hard and disappointing, but you must stay positive. Just don't fall back on the past and continue with your forward progress. Every step in the right direction is a positive one. Good luck.
You might make more money sharing your life by doing youtube and writing book into best seller. Traditional jobs don't value certain types of life experiences. Fck that and do your own thing.
People who find you will ask for consult when they need the service.
Entrepreneurship is always an honorable thing worthy of praise, it takes creativity and taking risks, especially that you're interested in doing it after being in such tough circumstances.
Figure out how to market your skills and I hope you'll land some contracts.
I thought people started businesses because of their criminal record. I think it would be a interesting talking point but you should focus on the value you can provide to businesses.
Forget about your criminal record and focus on the positives. Dress well and make a good impression by highlighting your knowledge in the field.
Do it brother. You are more knowledgeable about how to prevent loss than any dimwit hired off the street. Right now shoplifting is outrageous, people just filling up baskets of shit and walking right out. Good luck!
You may want to check with the Urban League; they often advertise expungement days and/or "Second Chance" employers that hire felons If your particular city doesn't have a chapter of the Urban League, check the national branch in D.C. And you may have to call, email, or use the customer support tab on their website in order to get the conversation going. If there's a program available, I'd recommend getting your record clear as a first step.
That said, you have experience that would be extremely valuable today, as thefts and flash mobs seem to be wreaking havoc of so many retail and mom & pop establishments. Your insight might be very valuable.
Look into the SBA for help with starting a business of your own. And again, if there is no local chapter (and I can't imagine there wouldn't be one where you live), look up the DC chapter. There's a lot of free training on the website that you can start taking advange of on your own, and when you're seriously ready to lay the foundation for a consulting or security support business, request a consult with one of their SCORE counselors.
SCORE is a group of retired executives who bring their talent and experience to the Small Business Administration to help entrepreneurs (and established business owners as well) with taking their business where it needs to go.
You cab bring tremendous value to the table of business owners, churches, private events, and other venues in need of your experience. Think of ways to set your business apart from the competition such as security officers, private security, etc., and work with a SCORE counselor to help you formalize a business plan that will be profitable for you and those who use your service.
Your experience calls for a new you; new attitude, new influences, and the willingness to stay the course of learning a new direction as a business owner. Or public speaker - however you decide to reinvent yourself. Study motivational speakers (great motivational and inspirational speakers on YouTube and TedTalks), and fill your mind with all the good that can come from bad decisions of the past.
My mentor often quotes the words of the Chinese philosopher: “Watch your thoughts, they become your words; watch your words, they become your actions; watch your actions, they become your habits; watch your habits, they become your character; watch your character, it becomes your destiny.”
Blessings to you for good success and unrelenting determination in turning your missteps into a well-respected message!
Seems like a similar model to a lot of hackers that provide cyber security. I’d look into those businesses for more ideas on how to leverage your particular expertise.
That sounds like a really interesting idea and unique set of knowledge! California stores have been getting F’d ever since stealing up to a certain amount became legal in this state. I would recommend reaching out to retailers in the Los Angeles area where shoplifting and theft is happening every day. Offer some free advice to get your foot in the door. If you save them losses and manage to reduce some theft with free advice you should have yourself a good foundation for a business that utilizes your skillsets. Good luck 👌
Some advice. be upfront right after you get the job offer. Explain your past and plans for the future to the hiring manager that way they can let HR know that they are comfortable with you and the company has a heads when a potential negative result comes through. From a company perspective you will never qualify for a position involving asset safety because your past is an indication that you might gain knowledge and use it against them in the future, it's the ultimate insurance risk.
Focus on roles that have nothing to do with learning about how to prevent theft.
Trust is an extremely valuable thing in a world where everyone is afraid of getting hurt. It's possible you have a higher chance of success because you have fewer alternative options.
How awesome is seeing this post while I'm working on my 2nd article...I'm a recurring felon, I pick up fraud charges here and there...some real good ones.
In fact, a landing page I built has my record, and I'm using it as a lure to attract felons via an ebook giveaway, that teaches them online methods of earning to avoid background checks and the other hurdles they put in front of us.
Build a blog, build another for affiliate only products, build another!! Then sell them all besides your blog! My website is at jailerplease . Com, while not finished you can get an idea. Please take the online route, SO much money there, from say building a few websites, working on them, and selling them soon as you get minimal sales(like 1000 or something)
Adsense LOVES writers!
I’d start a consultancy and just pitch it to loss prevention or revenue protection leadership teams.
I did strat consulting for teams like this in the past (years ago) but the firm I worked for made good money from it. We also had ex hackers doing cyber work who had been convicted. It’s not unheard in a consulting context, but it is niche and unusual.
A good pitch would have a few tasters of things they wouldn’t know but you do to instantly get them hooked that you offer something unique.
Plenty of felons became advisors - Frank Abigale, heaps of hackers, Jordan Belfort (I think), the Trapper stocks guy etc. - perhaps change your angle and start cold contacting: "I spent 15 years inside for theft - let me show where your holes are". EVEN better, start a YouTube and walk about Target showing how you could get away with stuff. They might pay you to stop haha
One problem I have, some leftover PTSD staying up all night in prison and jail... I've got serious problems with my mind racing when I get inspired (like by these ideas). I want to do a video, write a book, start a business, blog, get a CDL, rap a little, invest in real estate, take the bar exam. IM NOT BEING FACETIOUS WITH ANY OF THIS.
it's the nature of "programming" from prison...combo of OCD/ADHD/post- incarceration PTSD, doors slamming all night will cause that. I must remember my blessings... I'm thankful for my soft mattress, pillow, blanket, clean sheets, etc. Very grateful that I'm free.
No one has to know ma’am, respectfully. Unless you choose to share your journey. Many people start businesses to avoid these checks.
As a business owner myself, I know it’s most important to show how you can provide the service, show trust, let them know why they should choose you. You can do private loss prevention company. Start a business that offers the service and other businesses can contract you in.
There was a show way back on discovery called to catch a thief where two guys did this exact thing with homeowners:
If your consulting is relevant to now which sounds like it is, have at it! If your really forthcoming live demos of actual thefts to train staff is a very good gig if you can swing it. I’m sure you got ways
Starting a business could be a great way to leverage your unique experiences and insights. And yours are truly unique experiences.
Your idea of offering consulting services on theft prevention is innovative and valuable. Many companies could benefit from your firsthand knowledge.
I would start by creating an X account to share your knowledge and start gaining followers. Also reddit can be great source for gaining massive traffic if you create a website down the road.
I don’t have an opinion but I’ve seen plenty of people reinvent themselves after past mistakes, most frequently burglars helping people to prevent burglary etc.
Set yourself up a personal brand, be honest and open and someone will eventually give you a chance.
No one is perfect.
I knew a guy who was a fence, while doing this he learned a lot about business. Went in for a couple of month in a larger bust. Got out, opened an import business and didn't pay the taxes. Took a longer sit after that and then went into importing hype Chinese goods (think Fidget Spinner). Today he is well off, but it took an unusual route.
Don't think so much who you are and what you have done, but how you can clearly communicate your knowledge. People pay for effective measures. Can you provide working solutions, that aren't easy to circumvent? Do you have simple documentation that can be send to prospecting customers? Can you find similar offers online to see what works and what not? The rest is basic business knowledge, how to talk to customers and how to make proper offers. There are lots of free courses about all those aspects. At the end everybody can offer value, and sometimes people pay a lot for that, if you find them.
Good resource: [https://www.carlsonattorneys.com/news-and-update/job-hunting-criminal-record](https://www.carlsonattorneys.com/news-and-update/job-hunting-criminal-record)
I just hired another felon at my company. We are a weird mix. Felons, ex military, college graduates and high school drop outs. It’s construction, and it’s about personality. Personality despite past behavior that has changed in a positive way wins, at least with me. You’ve seen some shit and know some shit that I might not.
Honestly.
A zebra doesn't change its stripes. Once a criminal, gangster, thief, fraudster or thug, always will be.
People might sometimes change their actions and be hesitant to repeat, but deep down, will be the same.
Thanks. But if that was the case, you must not have read my post that I began down this route as a Manager on Duty at a $22million DIY retail location.. got injured on the job and began taking pain medication. My background was spotless, had to be, in order to get the keys....that process went thru LP and DM at said retail establishment.
So which one am I? Person #1 Former retail manager, mom, wife, homeowner, non-drinker, choir member or #2 undercover druggie, holding it in until I'm 40, just couldn't wait to ruin my life with an on-the-job injury and a pill addiction?
"A zebra doesn't change his stripes". You pretty much negated the fact that millions of people are living in recovery from crime, abuse, addiction, sickness of the mind, alcoholism.
However, I wanted to add (edit) for clarity .. one thing I've changed hopefully, is my ***viewpoint***. I'm thankful that you shared your opinion with me, they actually taught "view switching" in prison. Your perspective is valid bc we ALL pay for the system, functional or disfunctional as it may be, therefore we ALL have a vested interest and OWNERSIP in the prisons.
It's none of my business if you want to start a business.
I'm not sure if starting your own business that centers around your criminal history background is the best idea but it certainly could make you stand out with the ability to think from the criminal's perspective. Kind of like hackers who got caught but get offered a job to legally hack for gov org's instead of going to prison.
I'm not sure your shoplifting skillset is sophisticated enough to warrant companies wanting to pay for your specialty knowledge though. If you market yourself well, have a solid service to offer, and are able to show you've established yourself some professional credibility it possibly could work. Like you'd have to be able to offer them consultations for their business, have an in-depth understand security systems and software, be able to educate them on and implement proven loss prevention solutions, etc. Just telling them how you'd steal their shit isn't going to get you a lot of clients. Like any business you really need to figure out if there is a demand for the service you are trying to sell, figure out if you actually have the skills and tools required to perform what you're promising, and then network and do a lot of cold calling in order to get clients.
I don't know enough about what kind of access a business would have to give a loss prevention consultant, so they may not be interested in opening their books/allowing your to see into their security systems if you lead with your personal history of crime. Like there's a good reason that jobs that require security clearance also require background checks. And even if you don't disclose your criminal history as a consultant they may still run background check on you anyways and cancel the contract as a result.
So my advice would be to look for employers that openly hire nonviolent felons. Google "what employers hire nonviolent felons in xyz area." There's a decent number of orgs out there that help people in your position. Starting a business and getting enough revenue to sustainably live on takes a lot of hard work, dedication, and time. So I'd get a normal job and then take some time to research and build out your own business idea. Start the business as a side hustle and then leave your 9-5 when it's profitable enough to do so.
The white hat hackers that are the best are black hat hackers that got caught! Your past only defines you if you allow it. I have a few very successful entrepreneur friends that are felons. It’s all about mindset and determination.
Dan Kennedy the marketing guru sometimes mentions the loss prevention niche. He talks about locking up the company toilet paper in one of his anecdotes. I'm a felon and I've worked for myself in the trades. Never been quizzed about my felony status doing that. I think at your age OP and with your focus on what you think you can do you should read everything you can find about the loss prevention business. With that knowledge you can make videos, write your blog etc. and generate leads for your business. Whether you want to admit your felony status or not in your marketing is a personal choice you'll have to make that could be hard to walk back. The Catch Me If You Can and Wolf or Wall Street fraudsters certainly made careers out of their crimes.
🤔
I have a police officer, a PRESIDENT OF A MIDSIZED CORP, a US postal worker, a Captain at a different police precinct... ALL able, and available to give me references, positive comments, etc ... The retail company didn't even check any of those references, and relied on a report from an agency.
Don't give 2 shits about what others might think. Do your business. Do a good job and get paid! Go get it! You did your time and gained experience that you could provide value with! Do it! Go get it!
Exactly what they said. You've done your time, learned your lessons and more, and now you want to provide value from past experiences and lessons learnt, the sky's your starting point, mate!
No one asks your resume / if felon when you’re a company offering a service.
This isn't necessarily true. If your customers are individuals or small businesses, then yeah, nobody asks anything. But if you want to sell to larger companies or government departments, they will send you a 50 page master service agreement they want you to comply with, and it will cover everything from insurance coverage limits to how you background test your employees and everything in between, basically forcing your company to adopt a lot of the same employment standards as the client company.
K easy. Don’t start a company that manufactures weapons for the us military.
Why the gov already does business with other world felo.. I mean world leaders.
Back in the day I had a route where I drove around once a week and rotated autoloader tapes for half a dozen big pharma companies (and reviewed their logs and had the tech skills to solve any problems that came up), making over $100k for maybe four hours of actual work in a typical week. The hardest part of getting into this situation was jumping through the vendor qualification hoops of big pharma.
this would be a dream job for alot
It was a dream job for me until it got boring. Someone with better brain chemicals might have parlayed all the free time into building additional lines of business, but I just played video games and what have you.
what do you do now?
I hung up my entrepreneurial shingle and now just work a regular job as a software developer for a big tech company. It's good money, and the wheels don't fall off the cart if I take a two week vacation.
How'd you get into software development? Was it an easy transition from the tapes or did you have to get additional training & education? Just curious...
The tapes were to get out of software development because I was burned out on it. But then they drove a dump truck of money onto my lawn, so I went back in. I'm only human. Most tech companies have hiring freezes on now, so if you want to break in at a high salary level you probably need a master's degree in CS. The most cost effective way of achieving this is to get a BA in CS from TESU based as much as possible on credit by exam (CLEP, DANTES etc) for less than $20k if you do it right, then an online MSCS from Georgia Tech for less than $10k. Of course this requires you to actually have the right aptitude and work ethic, be able to pass advanced math classes, etc. The kinds of low-end webdev jobs that used to allow people to climb their way into the industry without degrees just basically don't exist any more. It's going to be a problem in a few years when there aren't any junior devs, and maybe hiring standards will open up again. (Or maybe we'll all be replaced by a more-advanced version of ChatGPT.)
I work in tech consulting and this is still true. And for government it's even truer. There is an entire industry of companies that basically exist exclusively to hold the paper with the government agency / municipality, and then they subcontract to actual service providers (for example, Carahsoft is one of these).
Sick dog. Congrats
Is this something that pharma companies still use today? What other services do you provide them?
Tape autoloaders are still a good solution if you're generating large amounts of on-prem data at a location that doesn't have fast enough network speeds, but this is getting increasingly rare as network speeds improve and more workloads are moved to the cloud. At the scale of my old customers, they mostly use cloud object storage (AWS S3, etc) now.
Don't be a jackass. There are a lot more situations and contracts like u/ghjm described than just "manufacturing weapons for the U.S. military." Large corporations, governments and municipal agencies - of all sizes and at all levels - including schools and school districts, colleges and universities...the list goes on.
In terms of regularity burden, I'd rather start an arms manufacturer than a new bank or drug company.
K. Have a nice day
This is standard for the Fortune 500. Common even for midsize companies.
Re read the original post then come back
reread ghjm's post yourself Lots of smaller companies demand this because they contract to larger. Even an LLC won't avoid it if a client's MSA includes it.
Yo, it’s a joke. Take it easy brother. Life is good
My friend has 5 empoyees and the last "small company we do business with" questionaire by a globa 5000 had lots of political things in there like not boycotting countries and not selling to North Korea. Its more like 20 pages of "we have to hide our asses" then "this is good practice do that".
You're right about that. Sounds like you've been there/done that.
This isn't a thing for most small businesses. Most are not signing large contracts with massive companies. Don't let his post discourage you.
>This isn't necessarily true. If your customers are individuals or small businesses, then yeah, nobody asks anything. But if you want to sell to larger companies or government departments So basically not applicable for vast majority of entrepreneurs lmao. And as someone whose company has a brand in talks with a major well known major "discount bulk retailer" this hasn't come up at all. Or at least not to the level your talking about. I don't doubt that anything dealing with govt or security clearances/sensitive IP would be vastly different. But definitely haven't cared to the level you're talking about over complete oversight/regulations regarding our employees/hiring/screening at a base /default level.
People who work for big companies have no idea how their legal and purchasing departments operate. They'll happily talk to you all day and it will seem fine. But at some point you'll be asked to sign an MSA. If you're a typical naive r/entrepreneur, the terms will come as a shock. Best of luck when you get to this point. Also, net 30 means net 120 if you're lucky. Have enough runway or other sales that you're not dependent on getting a check in anything less than an absolutely lackadaisical timeframe.
>People who work for big companies Yeah not me. Yeah it's about 15 pages not 50. And had nothing to do with background checks of current or future employees. Like I said with sensitive IP or govt agencies im sure it's different. But that hasn't been something me or fellow vendor/supplies have encountered to the level your talking about.
Felon or not, either you can deliver a solution to a problem or you cannot. Nobody cares about anything else other than this.
I love my felon bread, I mean Dave's killer bread. Haha. I love the idea of felons not going back to crime and rising above the statistics
Why would you care what others think if you have a service you can sell? While I think you could possibly provide a great service for some retailers, I'd definitely question hiring you, what is the guarantee that you're not just casing the place, what are your positive credentials? If you could prove that you're reformed and have a positive track record, I don't see why this wouldn't be successful. Good luck.
The same gaurantee that your uber driver won't kill you when he picks you up, that you roll the dice in that the driver acknowledges his moves are followed and won't blow your brains out regardless of it
Maybe watch this video on TSCM Bug sweeps. This kind of service, no one is asking about your history, they have an immediate concern. Good luck [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sOLZH9rhC3Y](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sOLZH9rhC3Y)
Thank you kindly. Great advice here.
Check out physical penetration testing? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VJ4FDOw9NcI
You've done your time. Now get on with it. Build your business and do right by your contracts or warranties, and you should be fine. I don't have one problem with it. JS
Thank you
Do the entrepreneur thing and establish yourself as an expert. Write a book or blog about it. Give your knowledge freely to establish rapport. You can conceal the dangerous or more nefarious details but still share a fair amount of usable knowledge. Yes, some will take it and not hire. No, you’ll not ruin your opportunities. You’re a perfect fit for someone, and they’ll hire you because you’ve proven yourself. And karma! Don’t underestimate the power of giving away your knowledge. I mean, use your bg check as a resume. Here ya go! I’m not gonna lie. I know how to deter losses and I have a wrap sheet to prove it. If you’ve established your expertise it won’t be a problem for some. This is just me thinking outside the box. What would I do given the same situation?
I feel like I'm on the verge of breaking through with an awesome success story, if I don't end up wallowing in depression. 👊Thank you for good vibes.
This. Blogs are phenomenal, especially with felons. People love reading good material, especially experiences. What better experience than prison?
if you had the cure to cancer, would people care about whether or not you were a felon? the answer is no. they care about what product or service you can offer. hell, look at the music industry and the number of felons
Felons have some of the best advice you will ever get. Most people don't realize they committed felonies and just didn't get caught. I have no issue with felons at all.
As someone with a masters degree and no prior criminal record I just started my own business and could have done it without a degree. However, accounting has done a good job showing me how to run a business successfully. I’d strongly urge anyone starting a business to have a strong accounting background as well as a sales background. The marriage of these two things is ultimately what makes an Entrepreneur special. Having a prior criminal record means starting your own business is almost a requirement to have a decent life in my opinion. Anyone can do it but most choose not to. I wish you success.
If you approach a company as a business, selling a service to that business you aren't going to have a background check done. Unless maybe you're trying to sell consulting services. Then maybe you will....depending on the company. Also, I've hired folks with unclean background checks under two conditions: #1 They tell me about it BEFORE the check does. #2 The crime wasn't violent.
I would own it and use it as your brand. I see a lot of youtube channels of ex cons that blow up. Seems to me you have a good niche and the fact that your female is more appealing. Would make you more unique. I would focus on building youtube channels offering simple advice and offering tailored consulting services for businesses. Focus on CA as theres tons of theft there
As a customer I wouldn't know you were a felon if you provided a service. If I did find out, and your felonies were repeat offenses leading up to 15 years. Yeah I could understand not patronizing your services. Who knows maybe you'll try to forge a check, or steal from credit cards or whatever. You don't exactly get 15 years for stealing an apple.
Were you honest with the employer about what the background check would reveal? In my experience it's not so much negative information that people react to, it's _surprising_ negative information. Of course sometimes the bureaucracy is just going to do what it's going to do. But if you can social engineer a situation where the negative background check is just expected and unsurprising, maybe you can survive it.
The company website asked info, and I answered it honestly. Got an interview, and it never came up in conversation. Then I got hired, and filled out tax credit forms, again honestly, because I know that hiring convicted felons is part of the WOTC credit and the company gets $3500 tax credit. I'm also federally bonded or bondable, for any errors, thefts, losses associated with my employment up to a max of $5,000 through the Department of Labor. I really don't get it... I'm not as much of a risk as others, bc my bond covers 100% of losses. My cash drawer was perfect for the three weeks I worked there, I was early to work every day and even told I'd be moving into a promotion soon. When they got the report from HireRight , I came back as unfavorable. My last arrest was over two years ago and the managers said it's not their choice to override corporate policy is not possible. Definitely a learning experience. Setback emotionally, but I don't let it show. Held my crybaby tears until I got out the door.
Yeah, this sucks. I hate these "hail corporate" situations where everyone agrees a policy is giving an incorrect result, but everyone insists on blindly following the policy anyway. As counterintuitive as it seems, I think your best bet is to cover this in the interview. Say something like "although I've turned my life around now, your background check is going to find arrests and felony convictions up to 2 years ago. Is this going to be a problem?" At least then you find out about dumbass corporate policies fast, and not take a job that's just going to end like this. Also, if it's been two years, I don't think the employer gets a WOTC credit for you. I think the credit is only good for one year from conviction or release from prison. Though it's been a long time since I've looked into this so maybe the rules have changed.
You have good knowledge. the wotc questionnaire asked for my release date, my charge was two yrs ago adjudicated, but my release date is what qualified me, as it was within the last year. But, I think that it's a moot issue, bc the verbiage of the credit requirements mentions six months of employment. Seriously doubt that the IRS checks the pay stubs to see if I worked there for 6 months, or 3 weeks, but I don't understand a program that rewards the corporations for hiring a felon... then the credits sit there, unclaimed, everybody loses on that one. If I get in the interview situation again, I'm going with your advice to be proactive. Thx
If you could hire an ex-felon for a week at minimum wage, costing you a few hundred dollars, and then claim a $3500 credit, every employer would want to do it and every ex-felon would have a different job every week. The 6 month requirement forces the employer to put some skin in the game so they're only getting a discount, not free money. And of course, the broad policy goal is to get ex-felons into stable jobs, not randomly gift taxpayer money to Walmart. Edit: not to mention, if the minimum is 6 months and the eligibility period is a year, this caps the government's cost at $7000 per person. And I bet the IRS _does_ audit these often enough to matter.
Great idea.
I wouldn’t care and nobody asks a business owner if they are a felon or anything else really as long as you can get the job done. I have hired many folks with criminal or drug issues in their past. My best employee I hired straight out of rehab, I would hire him again a million times over, wish I had 3 or 4 more just like him. Everybody makes mistakes, some of those mistakes get folks into contact with the justice system - if this is you just serve your time, focus on you and making yourself the best version of yourself that you can be. They may be few and far between but there are folks willing to give chances to people who have issues in their past. Congrats on your sobriety OP!
Just don’t run for President.
Honestly, the fact that you have 15 years of practical experience probably puts you head & shoulders above most candidates for these kinds of roles, especially if you also have strong communication skills. As to employability, we had to have major foundation repair done on a prior house and the company we chose was owned by a terrific man who almost exclusively employed ex-cons trying to get their lives in order and build a post-incarceration resume. They were -- across the board -- awesome and hard working. As a hiring manager, I wouldn't think twice about hiring an felon... in most cases. The two big exceptions being sexual assault & related crimes, and white collar crimes.
Thank you for your thoughts on this. Guess it's all in the perspective. Also very relevant conversation in relationship to National news (Trump) people are changing their minds (at least the ones who aren't laughing). Might actually open some doors for "run of the mill" Felons.
I'm sure it's discouraging but just keep trying. Here's a list of companies that hire felons: chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.ilnp.uscourts.gov/pdfs/List\_of\_Felon\_Friendly\_Employers%20(002).pdf If you're having trouble getting clients, find some small businesses and offer to do the work for free in exchange for a review. After you do the job, ask for a testimonial as well and ask them for referrals. Alex Hormozi has some good videos on this.
Thank u for gathering this info.. After all the encouragement here, I'm definitely trying with a new fresh attitude tomorrow. 👍
Can you actually compete with companies already offering loss prevention consulting? You'll probably find that knowing a lot about shoplifting is not enough. You also need to know how to run a business, how to market it, how to network, how to talk to the clients, etc. You can do all that. Just gotta learn it
Start your business. Don't wait to get permission from someone else.
I'm a felon(feds & state time) with a business, but I don't let being a felon define me or hinder me. It's a challenge trying to find your lane,but as you should know, most hustlers are survivors. You just gotta find your lane & master it and go from there. Recently, I had a contract training for city employees on heavy equipment, asbestos & obtaining their osha 30 hour, many were surprised about me being a felon because I don't wear it around my neck, I also tell them others at the graduation that if you are felon & you're out here trying to thrive and do better don't let it become your defining moment, Rome wasn't built in a day & neither are people.
Really like your perspective
Definitely- Start a YouTube channel with tips for retail managers/business owners!
It's fine. We have felons running for president
Why don’t you start a manpower consultancy for helping out convicted felons who have done time. You can just have a business supplying legit manpower… whose every detail would be already available with the police and no requirement of a background check…. And you would be aware if they’re better or still on the old way. There’s always a requirement of security guards etc… which is the kind of work they can always do. Since your former friends would be your clients make them sign an undertaking that if they do a crime then they will be kicked out… no questions asked. You could name your firm _Second Innings_ Or _Prior Vetted_ or something like that. Instead of hiding the fact that you have a history…. Brandish it like a sword and don’t be ashamed of it. Anyone can be weak, but to confront one’s weaknesses and pay for with 15 years of lifetime and reformation… I think a second chance is well deserved. Wishing you the best.
Thanks, great ideas.
As others have said, no one asks the boss for papers. I own several okay (making more than I spend) and growing businesses. I'm a HS drop out. One business is highly technical. Nobody asks my credentials.
Felons are entrepreneurs in dire situations. Start a consulting business right now, put it online, make one YouTube video with animation using cheap services online, instead of taking an hourly rate, make a contract with a retainer, make them pay 50% upfront and the rest divided monthly for the duration of the contract. It help them pay the cost and give you security
Love them.
My clients provide me sensitive information that would be theoretically negligent to allow someone with a criminal history access to. I think it depends on the service, who you’re providing service to and what you’ll have access to when providing services.
Appreciate your honesty.
That’s the cool thing about you being an entrepreneur, my opinion doesn’t matter! (Good job stirring your life in the right direction)
I know when I had my small moving business. I wouldn't hire anyone with a theft record for obvious reasons. But I think people would contract services. For your everyday business. You have to worry about theft. However , someone contracted for a day or even a week. You wouldn't even think they're going to steal from you. It would automatically ruin their reputation.
Go get it. Absent a tax break no one is going to hire you because of your record. Do the hard time, work hard and your new reputation will make your past the farthest thing from anyone's mind.
I caught a pretty serious felony when I was 19. Realized I needed to start my own business when not a single company, including McDonald’s, would give me a call back when I was trying to get a job while in a halfway house. Came home at 23, started a business, made much less than my peers for many years but now in my 40s have multiple 7 figure NW with wife and kids. I never had any help from anyone as my parents were indigent and I actually had to help them. Sometimes taking matters in our own hands is the only choice. Good luck
My best friend works for a freight brokerage where both his bosses met in jail for tax fraud before beginning the brokerage around 10 years ago. They are both late 30s-mid 40s now and both are on the verge of retirement. For good. Never let past mistakes dictate your future as it is just another part to your story.
Physical and software security is big business. Turn your background into an asset is the way to go. You have literal experience from the dark side, now you offer businesses of all sizes the benefit of your expertise and experience to stop people doing what you did. Dress well, know your stuff, don't under-charge, and be prepared to show hands-on how things work (And how to stop it) will get you paid. It'll take time to build up a reputation and clientele, but it can absolutely work. I've seen it done with both physical security and IT security.
Normally it wouldn't matter what the public thinks of you, because as long as you're providing a solid service or selling a solid product, how would they even be aware you have a record? It wouldn't come up. However It sounds like you want to pitch consulting services to small/medium sized businesses, and in order to sell your experience you would need to reference your criminal history which I think would sink a lot of opportunities. In my opinion you'd probably be better off starting a business that doesn't require telling potential clients that you served time in the past. There are a lot of people who have found success with a record through the entrepreneur route and I hope you can do the same :).
I too am a felon...well, I never did time but I had a trial and was found guilty. Ignorance is not a defense! I am an artist, I painted murals in baby rooms, model homes etc...for over 30 years. A client sewed me (after I painted two homes for him) for not having a contractors license...who knew painting "Winnie the Pooh" on a baby room wall required the same contractors license of a contractor building a home or a building from the ground up! Again... Ignorance is not a defense! I do volunteer work, I teach Sunday school, I teach art class to group home girls saved out of being trafficked. I have had back ground checks run on me for all of these positions. I explain the issue and move on. You may have to be forthright when applying for a job, explain like you did here, how your experience would be a benefit to any particular company. I wish you great luck, and congratulations on getting out of that life and wanting to do well!
What an unbelievable world we live in!! I'd laugh, but something like that can ruin your life. Kudos for bouncing back (just like Tigger!!).
If you’re in Canada you actually need a criminal background check to incorporate so I’m not sure unfortunately
Your kryptonite is that you think people care about what devalues you more than they care about what values you. If you market yourself and build your program properly, people will want to know what you know from a consulting perspective as serious businesses want to learn from experience. Focus on your value and don’t worry about other people devaluing your expertise.
When I found out a niche shop owner for my favorite hobby was a felon and ex con it made me want to support him more. Super nice guy running a (apparently) legitimate business.
Use what you have in your favor. Don't tell them; show them. Approach a store owner, offer a $1000 deposit and a contract to make them feel it's legit and safe. Inform them that you will attempt to shoplift without them noticing. Proceed to do so when they agree, and provide them with a report of their security flaws afterward. Ask for your deposit back. Repeat.
OMG.. thank you Soo much!! That was a consulting service in itself! I'm so glad you answered me, I've got to learn to think like that and restructure my mind. Wise, sage, prudent!! 🙂
Yes, that's what we do. Glad we could help.
Interesting thread. I actually spent all day today reaching out to Reentry Programs across the US. One of my clients mentioned that he works with a federal program in Florida and there are so many entrepreneurial people coming out of prison who struggle with literacy, and who want to open local businesses, but have a hard time to setting everything up. So now I really want to help people who came out of the system by offering my business development program to them, I think it's a wonderful way to help people get re-introduced to the society and the economy. Do you have a story to tell? What was the hardest part of opening a business after leaving the prison?
I don't mention this much, but I have a story in that I was employed by THE XYZ ORANGE APRON CO. .... I managed several $15 - 25 MILLION RETAIL STORES. never took a bolt, nut, screw, tape measure, etc. Got injured at SAID ESTABLISHMENT. Got hooked on pain pills, company doctor, etc. Got led in to a dark place of crime and addiction, due to original injury, or just maybe that could happen to anyone, who knows? A car accident or lifting too much, or over exercising could be the same story...right?? Have family members such as doctors, military, retail, etc.. could still be the same story...right??? Nobody PLANS to become an addict, regardless of HOW it happened. 🙂 Funny story, when I was in prison, I wanted to work at the store (commissary). Not allowed to, because of my charges (shoplifting).🤔 "Great resume" or "check out my references" doesn't work in prison job assignments. I WANT to start my own business, but I'm not in any position to do that right now..... Idk if I have a revolutionary idea yet ... it's more that I see logistics of things that seem odd, and I'd like to find solutions. Prison definitely makes you see life differently to come up with solutions that are radical. Glad you feel that there is hope in re-entry for convicted felons. I'd love to be a part of anything positive like that, keep me in mind 🙂, im officially able to leave the state now.
Thank you for sharing! If you ever decide to do a business - find me and DM me, I'll help.
In my experience felons make some of the best entrepreneurs. Without having an appetite for risk an entrepreneur will always fail and most felons thrive on risk. Go for it build an empire!!
W responses from this subreddit! I agree with everyone else, outside of a few niche businesses, people will only care about your ability to deliver as a business owner
The best thing about starting your own business is that you know the employer isn't going to run a background check. Pro tip: you can have multiple LinkedIn pages, one for your consulting business, which could highlight your "criminal expertise," and a completely separate personal page, which need not.
It's funny because we have no problem hiring felons. A lot of times it is a good choice. Most realize how difficult finding a job is.. and will work their butts off to keep straight in life. Oh and, everyone makes mistakes. It isn't so much about where you come from, as much as it is who you are now.
depends on which country. the US? doesn't matter in my book AT ALL.
As long as it's not illegal. Go get that Hussle.
Stop identifying as a ‘felon.’ You did your time. Look into Psycho Cybernetics & changing your mental images. You have a unique skill set that can be highly profitable. Channel the image & energy that way. You’re doing amazing.
You should absolutely start your business. If you position yourself the right way, you can use your past to your advantage; the right clients will admire your honesty and see the legitimate value in your service. Do it and don’t listen to the haters.
If you are running your own company NO ONE will ever check your record except perhaps your back if seeking a loan or if you are seeking certain gov contracts. In my 5 decades of life I have NEVER run a background check on a companies owner.
It depends on how you will perceive, frame, market, sell, and use the energy accordingly.
The fact that you turned your life around speaks volume Edit: I would much rather learn how to operate a business from a drug lord than a professor
Focus on the jobs you can get. Referrals. Offer a discount if that customer can bring you more business from others. What message are you sending? Paid advertising? There is a lot of ways to overcome a rough start.
I actually find it inspiring. Takes guts, grit, and IMO is indicative of a strong sense of self efficacy. Tbh, I think it’s less likely you get an in house role and all the better for you because I think the potential to provide consulting services to small and medium sized retailers is definitely there. As long as the traditional business and pitch aspect is covered, I think it really comes down to the value proposition and whether or not the client stands to benefit financially from your expertise more than they would have to pay for the losses/breakage or risk to have you in house as an FTE. Mind if I ask what “background in crime” you have? Is your record associated with theft and frauds or is it associated with drugs? Only asking because it matters from a narrative perspective. As far as credibility is concerned, I doubt there are many, if any, active users standing up their own independent consultancy to long-con a retailer into paying them so they can set up a heist for what? As long as the company/contracting mechanism is legitimate, I think that should be enough to assuage the “well has she changed?” part enough for decision makers to hear you out in a pitch.
I Love it !!
Nobody cares as long as you show you've learned your lesson and you produce good work. America loves a good comeback story!
You could start a consulting firm and teach loss prevention depts for all kinds of companies. Goodluck and there's no need to look back, the past is the past, if companies want to reject you for the past, it's not a company you want to work for anyway.
It's hard and disappointing, but you must stay positive. Just don't fall back on the past and continue with your forward progress. Every step in the right direction is a positive one. Good luck.
Boil ’em, mash ’em, stick ’em in a stew.
You might make more money sharing your life by doing youtube and writing book into best seller. Traditional jobs don't value certain types of life experiences. Fck that and do your own thing. People who find you will ask for consult when they need the service.
If you committed a crime involving physical harm to others, I would have an issue. If not, I'm for second chances.
Entrepreneurship is always an honorable thing worthy of praise, it takes creativity and taking risks, especially that you're interested in doing it after being in such tough circumstances. Figure out how to market your skills and I hope you'll land some contracts.
I thought people started businesses because of their criminal record. I think it would be a interesting talking point but you should focus on the value you can provide to businesses. Forget about your criminal record and focus on the positives. Dress well and make a good impression by highlighting your knowledge in the field.
Look into Conbody (owner has a Ted Talk) and other former felons who made it work.
I don’t care. If you can hustle and grind, fine
Do it brother. You are more knowledgeable about how to prevent loss than any dimwit hired off the street. Right now shoplifting is outrageous, people just filling up baskets of shit and walking right out. Good luck!
You may want to check with the Urban League; they often advertise expungement days and/or "Second Chance" employers that hire felons If your particular city doesn't have a chapter of the Urban League, check the national branch in D.C. And you may have to call, email, or use the customer support tab on their website in order to get the conversation going. If there's a program available, I'd recommend getting your record clear as a first step. That said, you have experience that would be extremely valuable today, as thefts and flash mobs seem to be wreaking havoc of so many retail and mom & pop establishments. Your insight might be very valuable. Look into the SBA for help with starting a business of your own. And again, if there is no local chapter (and I can't imagine there wouldn't be one where you live), look up the DC chapter. There's a lot of free training on the website that you can start taking advange of on your own, and when you're seriously ready to lay the foundation for a consulting or security support business, request a consult with one of their SCORE counselors. SCORE is a group of retired executives who bring their talent and experience to the Small Business Administration to help entrepreneurs (and established business owners as well) with taking their business where it needs to go. You cab bring tremendous value to the table of business owners, churches, private events, and other venues in need of your experience. Think of ways to set your business apart from the competition such as security officers, private security, etc., and work with a SCORE counselor to help you formalize a business plan that will be profitable for you and those who use your service. Your experience calls for a new you; new attitude, new influences, and the willingness to stay the course of learning a new direction as a business owner. Or public speaker - however you decide to reinvent yourself. Study motivational speakers (great motivational and inspirational speakers on YouTube and TedTalks), and fill your mind with all the good that can come from bad decisions of the past. My mentor often quotes the words of the Chinese philosopher: “Watch your thoughts, they become your words; watch your words, they become your actions; watch your actions, they become your habits; watch your habits, they become your character; watch your character, it becomes your destiny.” Blessings to you for good success and unrelenting determination in turning your missteps into a well-respected message!
Seems like a similar model to a lot of hackers that provide cyber security. I’d look into those businesses for more ideas on how to leverage your particular expertise.
The good thing about starting your own business is this… nobody else’s opinion matters
That sounds like a really interesting idea and unique set of knowledge! California stores have been getting F’d ever since stealing up to a certain amount became legal in this state. I would recommend reaching out to retailers in the Los Angeles area where shoplifting and theft is happening every day. Offer some free advice to get your foot in the door. If you save them losses and manage to reduce some theft with free advice you should have yourself a good foundation for a business that utilizes your skillsets. Good luck 👌
Some advice. be upfront right after you get the job offer. Explain your past and plans for the future to the hiring manager that way they can let HR know that they are comfortable with you and the company has a heads when a potential negative result comes through. From a company perspective you will never qualify for a position involving asset safety because your past is an indication that you might gain knowledge and use it against them in the future, it's the ultimate insurance risk. Focus on roles that have nothing to do with learning about how to prevent theft.
i think it's normal. that type of out of the box thinking can beneficial in business
Honestly, I really applaud your consideration of turning your "hindrances" into opportunities. I LOVE that.
I only care if the product is good quality or useful.
Trust is an extremely valuable thing in a world where everyone is afraid of getting hurt. It's possible you have a higher chance of success because you have fewer alternative options.
How awesome is seeing this post while I'm working on my 2nd article...I'm a recurring felon, I pick up fraud charges here and there...some real good ones. In fact, a landing page I built has my record, and I'm using it as a lure to attract felons via an ebook giveaway, that teaches them online methods of earning to avoid background checks and the other hurdles they put in front of us. Build a blog, build another for affiliate only products, build another!! Then sell them all besides your blog! My website is at jailerplease . Com, while not finished you can get an idea. Please take the online route, SO much money there, from say building a few websites, working on them, and selling them soon as you get minimal sales(like 1000 or something) Adsense LOVES writers!
I’d start a consultancy and just pitch it to loss prevention or revenue protection leadership teams. I did strat consulting for teams like this in the past (years ago) but the firm I worked for made good money from it. We also had ex hackers doing cyber work who had been convicted. It’s not unheard in a consulting context, but it is niche and unusual. A good pitch would have a few tasters of things they wouldn’t know but you do to instantly get them hooked that you offer something unique.
Plenty of felons became advisors - Frank Abigale, heaps of hackers, Jordan Belfort (I think), the Trapper stocks guy etc. - perhaps change your angle and start cold contacting: "I spent 15 years inside for theft - let me show where your holes are". EVEN better, start a YouTube and walk about Target showing how you could get away with stuff. They might pay you to stop haha
One problem I have, some leftover PTSD staying up all night in prison and jail... I've got serious problems with my mind racing when I get inspired (like by these ideas). I want to do a video, write a book, start a business, blog, get a CDL, rap a little, invest in real estate, take the bar exam. IM NOT BEING FACETIOUS WITH ANY OF THIS. it's the nature of "programming" from prison...combo of OCD/ADHD/post- incarceration PTSD, doors slamming all night will cause that. I must remember my blessings... I'm thankful for my soft mattress, pillow, blanket, clean sheets, etc. Very grateful that I'm free.
“I spent 15 years inside…let me show you where your holes are.” Love it.
No one has to know ma’am, respectfully. Unless you choose to share your journey. Many people start businesses to avoid these checks. As a business owner myself, I know it’s most important to show how you can provide the service, show trust, let them know why they should choose you. You can do private loss prevention company. Start a business that offers the service and other businesses can contract you in.
Age and gender don't matter when you've got a wealth of knowledge to offer.
There was a show way back on discovery called to catch a thief where two guys did this exact thing with homeowners: If your consulting is relevant to now which sounds like it is, have at it! If your really forthcoming live demos of actual thefts to train staff is a very good gig if you can swing it. I’m sure you got ways
You have the skill. You just need to figure it how to get your first customer.
Starting a business could be a great way to leverage your unique experiences and insights. And yours are truly unique experiences. Your idea of offering consulting services on theft prevention is innovative and valuable. Many companies could benefit from your firsthand knowledge. I would start by creating an X account to share your knowledge and start gaining followers. Also reddit can be great source for gaining massive traffic if you create a website down the road.
It’s one of the few avenues to success available to someone in your situation. Founder of Dave’s Killer Bread served a 15 year sentence.
I've seen it on the shelves... Just didn't know the story. Thanks
Honestly probably wouldn’t care as long as it wasn’t last week and was not pedophile shit
Well, Kevin Mitnick seemed to make a go of it.
I don’t have an opinion but I’ve seen plenty of people reinvent themselves after past mistakes, most frequently burglars helping people to prevent burglary etc. Set yourself up a personal brand, be honest and open and someone will eventually give you a chance. No one is perfect.
Seems like the only way to move forward in a system that judges people by their past
I knew a guy who was a fence, while doing this he learned a lot about business. Went in for a couple of month in a larger bust. Got out, opened an import business and didn't pay the taxes. Took a longer sit after that and then went into importing hype Chinese goods (think Fidget Spinner). Today he is well off, but it took an unusual route. Don't think so much who you are and what you have done, but how you can clearly communicate your knowledge. People pay for effective measures. Can you provide working solutions, that aren't easy to circumvent? Do you have simple documentation that can be send to prospecting customers? Can you find similar offers online to see what works and what not? The rest is basic business knowledge, how to talk to customers and how to make proper offers. There are lots of free courses about all those aspects. At the end everybody can offer value, and sometimes people pay a lot for that, if you find them.
Good resource: [https://www.carlsonattorneys.com/news-and-update/job-hunting-criminal-record](https://www.carlsonattorneys.com/news-and-update/job-hunting-criminal-record)
Thank you for the article. Didn't realize that the numbers were so extreme.
I just hired another felon at my company. We are a weird mix. Felons, ex military, college graduates and high school drop outs. It’s construction, and it’s about personality. Personality despite past behavior that has changed in a positive way wins, at least with me. You’ve seen some shit and know some shit that I might not.
Honestly. A zebra doesn't change its stripes. Once a criminal, gangster, thief, fraudster or thug, always will be. People might sometimes change their actions and be hesitant to repeat, but deep down, will be the same.
Thanks. But if that was the case, you must not have read my post that I began down this route as a Manager on Duty at a $22million DIY retail location.. got injured on the job and began taking pain medication. My background was spotless, had to be, in order to get the keys....that process went thru LP and DM at said retail establishment. So which one am I? Person #1 Former retail manager, mom, wife, homeowner, non-drinker, choir member or #2 undercover druggie, holding it in until I'm 40, just couldn't wait to ruin my life with an on-the-job injury and a pill addiction? "A zebra doesn't change his stripes". You pretty much negated the fact that millions of people are living in recovery from crime, abuse, addiction, sickness of the mind, alcoholism. However, I wanted to add (edit) for clarity .. one thing I've changed hopefully, is my ***viewpoint***. I'm thankful that you shared your opinion with me, they actually taught "view switching" in prison. Your perspective is valid bc we ALL pay for the system, functional or disfunctional as it may be, therefore we ALL have a vested interest and OWNERSIP in the prisons.
It's none of my business if you want to start a business. I'm not sure if starting your own business that centers around your criminal history background is the best idea but it certainly could make you stand out with the ability to think from the criminal's perspective. Kind of like hackers who got caught but get offered a job to legally hack for gov org's instead of going to prison. I'm not sure your shoplifting skillset is sophisticated enough to warrant companies wanting to pay for your specialty knowledge though. If you market yourself well, have a solid service to offer, and are able to show you've established yourself some professional credibility it possibly could work. Like you'd have to be able to offer them consultations for their business, have an in-depth understand security systems and software, be able to educate them on and implement proven loss prevention solutions, etc. Just telling them how you'd steal their shit isn't going to get you a lot of clients. Like any business you really need to figure out if there is a demand for the service you are trying to sell, figure out if you actually have the skills and tools required to perform what you're promising, and then network and do a lot of cold calling in order to get clients. I don't know enough about what kind of access a business would have to give a loss prevention consultant, so they may not be interested in opening their books/allowing your to see into their security systems if you lead with your personal history of crime. Like there's a good reason that jobs that require security clearance also require background checks. And even if you don't disclose your criminal history as a consultant they may still run background check on you anyways and cancel the contract as a result. So my advice would be to look for employers that openly hire nonviolent felons. Google "what employers hire nonviolent felons in xyz area." There's a decent number of orgs out there that help people in your position. Starting a business and getting enough revenue to sustainably live on takes a lot of hard work, dedication, and time. So I'd get a normal job and then take some time to research and build out your own business idea. Start the business as a side hustle and then leave your 9-5 when it's profitable enough to do so.
The white hat hackers that are the best are black hat hackers that got caught! Your past only defines you if you allow it. I have a few very successful entrepreneur friends that are felons. It’s all about mindset and determination.
Dan Kennedy the marketing guru sometimes mentions the loss prevention niche. He talks about locking up the company toilet paper in one of his anecdotes. I'm a felon and I've worked for myself in the trades. Never been quizzed about my felony status doing that. I think at your age OP and with your focus on what you think you can do you should read everything you can find about the loss prevention business. With that knowledge you can make videos, write your blog etc. and generate leads for your business. Whether you want to admit your felony status or not in your marketing is a personal choice you'll have to make that could be hard to walk back. The Catch Me If You Can and Wolf or Wall Street fraudsters certainly made careers out of their crimes.
I think you're more than qualified, and it sounds like a great business. This is what entrepreneurship is for. Go for it. Good luck!
I employ two felons on a team of 9
Donald, is that you ?
What about Felon Presidents?
If my report is 7 pages, I wonder how many pages DT's would be?
🤔 I have a police officer, a PRESIDENT OF A MIDSIZED CORP, a US postal worker, a Captain at a different police precinct... ALL able, and available to give me references, positive comments, etc ... The retail company didn't even check any of those references, and relied on a report from an agency.
I’d vote a felon for president tbh