Finding jobs for felons has always been a hard road. Due to the slowdown of the economy it’s proving even more difficult to find jobs for felons this year and those guys in the white house don’t seem to be helping. The truth is, the search for high paying jobs for felons is a task that falls on your shoulders, and we’ll help you lift weight.

We’re about to shed some light on your search for the best jobs for felons as you are about to learn tips on:

• Expungement of Criminal Records

• How to overcome the objections

• Advise when seeking jobs for felons

• The Top 10 Jobs for Felons

• Where to go for tools and education

Let’s get started! Depending on where you live, it might be possible to expunge your conviction from your records. This can be very positive when looking for jobs for felons but you will have to do some research on this or consult a lawyer because the laws differ in each state. There are many factors that need to be taken into consideration before you can get your record expunged such as the type of felony, the number of convictions, your age at the time, how many years have passed since the conviction, etc.

Note that you will have to obtain a court order to have your conviction expunged because it will not happen automatically even if you are eligible. When the court grants an expungement for you, all records of your conviction will be sealed and it will not show up if a prospective employer does a background check when applying for jobs for felons. You may also become eligible for professional or trade licenses after your records have been expunged.

It also depends on the type of felony you committed. For example, a former stockbroker who was convicted of embezzlement will definitely find it very difficult to get a job where he will handle money so he will have to look for a new job that is unrelated to his former profession.

Unfortunately, most medium to big businesses can be very reluctant companies that hire felons because of possible liability issues. It may still be possible to get a job with a big corporation if you are upfront about your past and can convince the person conducting your interview that you will make a good employee. To secure good jobs for felons you’ll need to separate yourself from the pack.

Around 80 percent of employers will do a background check so it is safe to assume that you will need to discuss your conviction honestly. When you’re looking for jobs for felons, explain what happened and how you have moved on since the time of your conviction. Highlight your skills, experience and that you are willing to work to prove yourself.

You will have a better chance of landing a job with a small privately-owned business. Small business owners are less concerned about corporate liabilities than large companies. Many jobs for felons work hand in hand with their employees or supervise their work directly.

Here is a list of the top 10 job ideas for felons:

1. State unemployment agencies – they will offer help and will have a list of jobs for felons that you can try applying for. Although most of the jobs will probably not be very good ones, this is a good starting point for you if you are willing to work from the bottom up.

2. Temp agencies – this is often the first stop for people who were recently released and need money badly. You can find a job doing manual labor on a temporary basis but you will have not have any benefits so it is best to look for a better job when you can.

3. Food service industry – there are always jobs in the food service industry (waiters, counter attendants, bus staff, etc.) for anyone who is willing to work hard. Tips can be a good source of extra income in the better restaurants, bars and other establishments.

4. Trucking companies – many felons have been able to successfully get jobs as truck drivers. This is a good job for felons who love driving and don’t mind being on the road a lot. It is less ideal for those who have families because you will be away for days or even weeks at a time. The pay is quite reasonable and will increase as you become more experienced.

5. Government/state jobs – some states and cities will offer jobs for felons as part of the government’s efforts to rehabilitate them into society. Government jobs are among the most secure available and generally have good benefits. Look for felon career opportunities in government websites or call and ask if they have any suitable job openings.

6. Military jobs – the US Army has the moral waiver program which allows for the recruitment of people with felony convictions. Jobs for felons in the military are not for everyone since you need to be physically fit and be willing to learn military discipline. The main drawback for many is that you may be put into dangerous combat duty. The military gives felons a second chance at life and allows them to serve their country.

7. Sales – this is an excellent job for felons who are good at selling things. It can be very high-paying if you have the skill for it and unlike many regular jobs, many sales people have become millionaires. The money you make will depend on the sales you generate.

8. Independent contractor/ freelance work – these can provide great jobs for felons. If you have a skill that people will pay for then you can work as an independent contractor. You are your own boss and control your own schedule. Examples of independent contractors are graphic designers, web designers, copywriters, business writers, etc. Many trades persons such as masons, carpenters, tailors, etc. are independent contractors, too.

9. Internet marketing – the internet offers many opportunities for people to earn money. Internet marketing includes selling items on the internet, earning a commission through selling other people’s items online (affiliate marketing), getting sales leads from your website, selling advertising space on your blog or website and other such activities.

10. Start your own business and create jobs for felons – lastly, the best employment, including jobs for felons, can be independent and to make money is to start your own business. It won’t be easy but if you are successful then there is no limit to how far you can go. We wish you luck on your search for the best jobs for felons.