The interview process tips

DON'T

DO

DON'T be unprepared for questions about your criminal history.
DON'T see yourself as an ex-convict unworthy of employment.

DO be prepared.
DO decide whether you will tell an employer directly and explain what you have learned from the situation or if you will avoid giving any information unless you are specifically asked. Our suggestion is that "honesty is the best policy." How you communicate the information makes a difference.
DO see yourself as worthwhile and a valuable asset who has the skills and abilities an employer needs.
DO have a positive self-image and confidence in your skills and abilities to "sell yourself" to an employer.

DON'T be lengthy in explaining things.

DO keep it short and discuss only necessary items.

When asked about your criminal conviction, DON'T say things like "The cops set me up" or "I didn't do anything wrong; it was my brother, Bob, who should have went to prison."

DO be honest.
DO explain what you learned from your prison experience or how you want to better yourself after being in prison.
DO take responsibility for the actions that led you to prison.

DON'T lie about your criminal background. Employers now have a way to review your criminal background on the Internet! If you are fired, it's not because you are a felon, but because you

DO stress that although you were incarcerated, you haven't been lazy; explain things you did to stay busy or improve yourself (worked, read, etc.)

DON'T stress out!

DO relax and be comfortable in explaining you're criminal conviction.
DO practice ahead of time.
DO maintain eye contact; this shows you have nothing to hide.
DO believe in yourself - it will show.
DO add something positive about your skills and abilities or positive information about the company.

DON'T be blind to programs that can help you get a job.

DO remember The Oliver Foundation Program. This program is committed to assist offenders to re-enter society and job market.