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Will a bank robbery conviction affect future employment?
Will a Bank Robbery Conviction Affect Future Employment?
Getting a job after a bank robbery conviction can be really tough. There’s definitely a stigma around having a record, especially for something as serious as robbing a bank. But it’s not completely hopeless! With the right approach, you can find employers willing to give you a second chance.
The first thing to understand is that a bank robbery conviction makes it way harder to get hired at a bank or financial institution. There are actually laws on the books that restrict people with certain criminal records from working in banking. Specifically, the Federal Deposit Insurance Act says that banks can’t knowingly hire someone convicted of a crime involving dishonesty, breach of trust, or money laundering without permission from the FDIC (Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation) [4].
So if you robbed a bank, getting hired at another bank will be an uphill battle. The FDIC might grant permission on a case-by-case basis, but you’ll have to really demonstrate rehabilitation and personal growth. They’ll look at stuff like how long it’s been since the conviction, your age at the time, whether you’ve gotten education or training, and evidence that you’ve turned your life around [5].
That said, the laws were loosened a bit in 2020 to be less restrictive for minor offenses. So for a small robbery when you were young, with a good record since, you might have a chance. But expect extra scrutiny and to have to jump through hoops.
How About Other Financial Jobs?
When it comes to other financial sector jobs like accounting, insurance, financial advising, etc., the legal restrictions aren’t as clear cut. Employers in these industries can weigh criminal records on a case-by-case basis in their hiring decisions.
Many will still be wary of hiring someone with a bank robbery conviction. Even without an outright ban, a record for theft and dishonesty will be a big red flag for jobs that involve handling money and sensitive financial information.
That said, it’s not an automatic disqualification everywhere. You’ll have to seek out more open-minded employers, be upfront about your past, and make a strong case that you’ve changed. The longer ago your offense was, and the more training/education you have since, the better.
What About Other Fields?
When looking beyond banking and finance, a bank robbery conviction won’t necessarily bar you from jobs. But many employers still conduct background checks, so it’s better to be upfront.
Fields like construction, manufacturing, transportation, and manual labor tend to be more open to hiring people with records. The key is finding companies focused on second chances and rehabilitation. Nonprofits and social enterprises are also worth looking into.
You may need to start with entry-level roles, then work your way up. Be prepared to explain the circumstances around your crime, your rehabilitation efforts, and why you’re a good hire despite your record. Having strong references from parole officers, treatment providers, teachers etc. can help back up your case.
Depending on your state, there may also be programs to help get your record expunged after a period of time, which can open up more job opportunities. Talk to a lawyer to understand your options.
Tips for Job Seeking With a Record
Here are some tips to help your job search after a bank robbery conviction:
- Be honest and upfront about your record when it comes up.
- Get career counseling/guidance from workforce development programs.
- Highlight your skills, education, and rehabilitation efforts.
- Get experience through temp agencies, apprenticeships, or volunteer work.
- Focus your search on second chance employers and socially conscious companies.
- Have references lined up to vouch for your character.
- Consider starting your own business if you can’t get hired.
- Look into professional licensing restrictions and exceptions.
- Don’t get discouraged – finding the right opportunity takes time.
Should You Disclose Your Conviction Upfront?
A tricky question is whether or not to disclose your bank robbery conviction before getting hired. There are pros and cons to consider:
Pros of disclosing early:
- Shows honesty and transparency.
- Lets the employer do their due diligence.
- Avoids surprises if they run a background check.
- Weeds out employers who would never hire you.
- Gives you a chance to tell your story on your terms.
Cons of disclosing early:
- May get automatically disqualified before making your case.
- Forces you to discuss past mistakes before building rapport.
- Employer may make assumptions before meeting you.
- Puts focus on your record versus your qualifications.
There’s no one right answer – it depends on your comfort level and the type of job. Disclosing upfront is best for positions requiring background checks. Otherwise, you may choose to bring it up after 1-2 interviews once you’ve made a connection.
How Can You Overcome Employer Objections?
Assuming you do disclose your bank robbery conviction, there are some likely concerns employers may bring up. Here are some ways to tackle their objections:
Objection: “You have a history of dishonest behavior.”
Response: “I was young and made a terrible mistake that I deeply regret. Since then, I’ve worked hard to turn my life around through education, volunteering, and addressing the issues that led me down the wrong path initially. I’m committed to honesty and transparency.”
Objection: “You may be a risk for theft here.”
Response: “I understand your concern, but I hope my actions over the past XX years speak for themselves. I’m committed to upholding the highest ethical standards. I’m happy to take any precautions needed to earn your trust.”
Objection: “Your background doesn’t align with our company values.”
Response: “I made a mistake in the past that doesn’t reflect my true values. If given a chance, I will represent your company’s values with integrity. I hope you will consider my dedication to personal growth.”
The key is owning your past, while emphasizing the ways you’ve changed. Bring up specific evidence of rehabilitation whenever possible. With empathy and open communication, many hesitant employers can become strong advocates.
Should You Consider Self-Employment?
If you’re really struggling to find employment, starting your own business is an option. There are challenges, like financing and getting credentials. But it avoids the background check process and lets you put your skills to work.
Many formerly incarcerated individuals have found success with construction companies, restaurants, landscaping services, moving companies, and consulting firms. The key is leveraging your existing talents and relationships.
Before jumping in, research licensing requirements in your state and business formation rules. Reach out to nonprofits that help new entrepreneurs get started. Building a customer base and reputation will take time, but self-employment can be a rewarding path forward.
Partnering With Second Chance Programs
You don’t have to go it alone in starting a career after incarceration. There are many great nonprofits and government agencies focused on assisting with re-entry and second chances.
For example, The Last Mile provides technology and business training to inmates to improve their employment prospects. The EEOC’s Reentry Program helps connect people with convictions to job opportunities. And the National Institute of Corrections has a Workforce Development Program to support newly released individuals.
Look for programs like these that offer mentorship, career counseling, skills training, and connections to vetted employers. They can provide the guidance and support needed to successfully transition back into the workforce.
In Conclusion
Having a bank robbery conviction will create major obstacles when seeking employment, especially in the banking and finance fields. But with determination, transparency, and evidence of rehabilitation, securing a job is possible.
The keys are targeting second chance employers, highlighting your talents, addressing concerns head-on, and leaning on support programs. With the right opportunity and positive performance, you can demonstrate you are more than your past mistakes.
It won’t be quick or easy, but living a crime-free life and contributing positively to society is the most rewarding path forward. Don’t get discouraged, stay focused, and know there are people rooting for your success.