If you are trying to find a job in Indiana in 2011, you are not alone. There are a lot of people out there – some with great experience and a degree – who are having trouble finding work. The good news is that there are things you can do to increase the chances you find a great job and a career that you can stick with. There are roadblocks and hassles that you must contend with – especially if you are an ex-felon looking for work in Indiana – but we have some tips, advice and techniques that can help make your Indiana job search go smoother. Continue Reading

I have an interview, what are they going to ask me?!  Answering tough interview questions is a frightening prospect when a job is hanging in the balance.  It doesn’t have to be that scary, preparation will get you a long way.  But what about answering the tough interview questions that come from out of nowhere?

How do you answer questions like “if you could have lunch with anyone, alive or dead, who would it be and why?”  Much of answering these questions involves assessing your ability to think on your feet.  Be prepared to answer that without much thought.

You should choose your hero and explain why they are your hero.  It does not necessarily have to relate to the position, it will give an interviewer insight into your personality.  There is no wrong answer to that question.

One of the toughest and most common questions is “where do you see yourself in 5 years?”  You must always answer that question with respect to the company you’re interviewing with.  Be specific if possible.  Be careful not to threaten the person interviewing you.  Read that as “where do you want to be?”  Your answer may help you move through the ranks.

You must be honest.  Many people are comfortable in their role and don’t want more than that.  Employers also like that answer as they don’t want to have to fill a position every year or two.  There are lots of great resources available, check some out and be prepared.

Felon Job Search

How to find a job if you’re a felon is a tough question.  There are many things you can and cannot do.  You’re at a new beginning.  So if you are still under court supervision, you must be working in an atmosphere where your employer will understand your parole or work release requirements.

You will be restricted from positions working around firearms and explosives as well as Government jobs and jobs that require licensure.  That does not mean you will not be able to work.

Working for a small business employer may be a great option for you.  Many small employers need people who are willing to work hard and improve not only their own situation but that of the company.  They typically work with a small staff and with close supervision.  This is a perfect situation for a felon willing to work hard.  You can work in skilled and unskilled labor positions.

Temporary services may be a good option to check into for day labor, construction and manufacturing jobs.  The most important thing to remember when wondering “how to find a job if you’re a felon”  is that honesty will serve you well.  You must be prepared to discuss your conviction at length and assure potential employers that you know crime doesn’t pay.

Also, education is important.  If you need to get your GED, do it.  Or if you can attend community college this will help you build the skill set you need to find employment.

Business Interview

So you have the interview of your life set up and you’re freaking out.  What are the best tips for a smooth interview?  An employer will make a decision about you in 60 seconds and either you will be called back, hired or never hear from them again.

Your appearance is the first thing a potential employer will assess.  Show up properly dressed, men in a clean and pressed suit and women in a solid color suit with coordinating blouse, jewelry and shoes.  Not the comfy, well worn heels used so often in your previous job, buy new ones if you need to.

Next they’re going to want to talk to you.  The best tips for a smooth interview, especially the talking part, are research, research and research.  Search the company, gain information, and be prepared to ask smart questions.  You care about this opportunity so you need to care about the company.  Be intelligent and thoughtful.  Most importantly be honest.

Be prepared to explain any extended absences from the workforce and how you can add value to their firm.  Be confident and poised.  If they offer to take you out for a meal, order a healthy meal, a salad or chicken dish.

Be sure to avoid an alcoholic beverage, even if your interviewer orders one.  Pay attention when they tell you about the company and the position, then paraphrase the information and repeat it to them.  This will show you have active listening skills.  First impressions are key, be prepared!

You’ve just been laid off or your position was eliminated.  Now you need to know how to search for a job smartly.  Remember, time is money and who can really live on unemployment, right?  It’s a tough market out there and using some simple tools, you can move through the transition phase much more quickly.

First, review and update your resume.  It’s always a good idea to keep your resume up to date because opportunities present themselves all the time.  Make sure your resume has no spelling or grammar errors, is neat and concise and clearly and honestly describes your experience.  Nothing will hinder your successful job search more than “padding” your resume.  Employers currently have a wealth of candidates to choose from, so lying will rule you out immediately.

Second, utilize social networking sites like LinkedIn and facebook.  This is a growing trend for job seekers and employers.  LinkedIn has job boards for various industries and many positions listed are exclusive to that site.  When searching for a job smartly, something to remember is people will hire people they like and who others like.  This is important when using social networking sites for your job search.

Make sure you don’t put anything on your facebook page that you wouldn’t want your mother to see.  If using LinkedIn, make sure you invite people to your network that will be willing to write you recommendations.  You never know who is hiring.  The best jobs are those not found on job sites.  Be smart, network.

It isn’t easy for a person convicted of a felony to get a job in Indiana. Many companies conduct investigations into the backgrounds of people who are applying for a job. Nevertheless, it is still possible to get a job with the assistance of government agencies and some organizations.

The Indiana Department of Labor leads the government agencies in this state in helping individuals with felony records get back on their feet again by getting decent jobs to help them become self-sufficient. Tax credits are provided to companies hiring ex-felons and fidelity bonding insurance is offered to persons who cannot get the usual commercial bonding. Job placement assistance is also provided by the government through the Community Action Program.

Organizations that offer help to ex-felons in getting a job include the Fletcher Place Ministry and the Goodwill Industries of Central Indiana. The ministry offers the Next Step Programs that help an ex-felon become employed after he has attended a series of seminars. On the other hand, Goodwill Industries offer various services to ex-felons, including general assistance in looking for a job and transitional employment.

The Resource Centers of Goodwill Industries provide general assistance such as providing tips on how to look for job leads, writing resumes, filling up application forms and other requirements, going for the job interview, and job retention. Meanwhile, in the transitional employment service, Goodwill Industries provide temporary jobs to ex-felons to help them get the work experience that they may need when applying for other jobs.