The Ex

Finding a job is one of the most important challenges facing the more than 650,000 ex-offenders who leave state and federal prisons as well as the more than 10 million individuals who are processed through jails and detention centres each year. Without a job and support network to help meet the immediate needs of food, housing, health care, and transportation, and often saddled with financial obligations, many ex-offenders soon fall back on old habits, relationships, and temptations that lead them back to jail and prison doors. While many employers may not want to hire someone with a criminal record, others are willing to give ex-offenders a second chance. Indeed, we live in a society that both admires and supports people who can pick themselves up, change their lives, and go on to achieve their dreams. But what should ex-offenders do in order to land a good job? And where should they go to find a job they do well and enjoy doing? Like a trusted friend, this companion workbook to the highly praised "Ex-Offender's Job Hunting Guide" is packed with practical insights, self-tests, and exercises for putting the 10 steps to job search success into practice: examine and change your attitudes; Conduct research on jobs and communities; assess your skills and identify your MAS; develop winning job interview skills; write effective resumes and letters; select appropriate job search approaches; network for information, advice and referrals; seek assistance and become proactive; state a powerful objective; and, negotiate salary and benefits like a professional. This book includes special chapters on taking responsibility, telling the truth about your background, and developing an action plan for making it on the outside. Here is the book that can make a big difference in the lives of ex-offenders. Follow each step and you will begin meeting employers who will want to hire you. Best of all, you'll begin living a new and productive life centred around your work, family, and community.