Wednesday, May 10, 2023
One of the biggest challenges facing Oklahoma City businesses is a shortage of talent. We may be able to close the gap by utilizing an untapped labor market: people formerly involved in the justice system. Roughly one in three adult Americans is in that category. That’s 70 million people. Many of them are unemployed or making significantly less than workers without a criminal record.
One of the greatest barriers to employment is the section on many job applications asking applicants if they have a criminal record. If the applicant says yes, they may automatically be rejected. They have no opportunity to give context for the record; how long ago the offense occurred, what they’ve done to rehabilitate themselves, or if the record is relevant to the position.
Fair Chance hiring is about choosing candidates based on merits and skills. Then, once a job offer is made, having a respectful conversation about backgrounds. Give the candidate an opportunity to share their experience and their story. It could lead to a professional relationship that is mutually beneficial. Compared to the general workforce, justice-involved individuals have lower turnover rates, lower absenteeism, and higher retention rates.
