While many people with criminal records have committed serious crimes and are a danger to the public, this is certainly not always the case. There are individuals out there who have a criminal record yet no criminal intent whatsoever. For instance, the crime of manslaughter is an event or act that resulted in an accidental death. For others, their record may simply have been a silly mistake made in their youth. There are also a significant minority who have been wrongfully convicted.
Sadly, those with any sort of criminal record can be stereotyped, and this is especially the case in the field of employment. This means that it’s important to address some of the more common misconceptions and replace them with impartial evidence. Outlined below are some myths that surround employees with criminal records.
1. They won’t stick around
Typically, employers like to have a loyal and content workforce who want to stick around. There is a perception that those with a criminal record may be more fleeting than those without one. Nonetheless, research conducted by Cornell University indicates that hiring employees with a criminal record decreased turnover by as much as 14%.
2. They lack a good work ethic
Another common myth surrounding employees with criminal records is that they do not work as hard. Research conducted by Portland State University arrived at a different conclusion though. After surveying 1,000 individuals (including managers), it was reported that up to 80% of respondents believed that employees with a record were as valuable as those without a record.
Having a criminal record should not result in you being counted out in the employment process. One thing you may want to consider is having your record expunged. Seeking legal guidance on this matter will give you a better idea of where you stand.