Re-entering society can be challenging. It’s tricky enough figuring out what changed in the outside world, let alone figuring out how to get back on your feet.
Finding a job is the first step to that. It is also the hardest step, but everyone deserves a second chance.
Target can be a potential option for you. As one of the largest retailers in the country, Target offers a variety of jobs at their many outlets countrywide, allowing you to start anew and build your life up again.
Does Target Hire Felons?
Yes, Target does hire felons and they are open about their hiring process and practices in regards to hiring felons.
While they do not have any specific programs for hiring felons, they do not discriminate against felons in their standard hiring process.
What is Target’s Hiring Policy?
The Ban-the-Box campaign is a civil rights movement asking employers to prohibit questions on criminal history during job applications.
In 2013, Target did precisely that and now no longer asks for criminal history during the first stages of the application process for any position. Target advocates for fairness in their hiring and aims to be neutral in their hiring policies.
However, you should note that they still do background checks in the later stages of the hiring process. This is because Target wants to evaluate the employee individually. Each employee is also assessed according to a case-by-case basis.
You don’t have to disclose your conviction history if expunged or annulled. So be sure to educate yourself on your state’s specific laws before applying!
Are There Felonies That Will Prevent Me From Getting Hired?
While the Civil Rights Act of 1964 denotes that employers cannot discriminate against people with criminal records, it does not erase bias and society’s view towards felons.
For instance, employers may hesitate to hire convicted sex offenders because they don’t want to associate with it. The nature of the conviction may also affect the hiring manager’s perception towards you, such as applying for a cashier position with a theft conviction.
In other words, Target (and most employers) may hire those convicted with sex crimes, robbery, and assault, but the chances are fairly slim.
How to Apply for a Job at Target?
Online Application
One of the easiest ways to apply for a job at Target is to visit their website and look at the list of openings available. You can then select an opening and fill in your application.
Look for Vacancies on Job Search Sites
Suppose you don’t prefer navigating the Target website. In that case, you can search for a job at Target using job posting sites such as LinkedIn and Glassdoor. You can filter your searches to narrow down your preferred scope of work on these websites.
Walk-in Application
Additionally, the simplest way to apply for a job at Target is just by going to your nearest one. If there are any openings there, that guarantees that you can work closer to home.
You can approach the staff for any queries and fill out an application form there. Try to look neat and approachable while interacting with the staff – the clothes make the man!
What Jobs Can I Apply For At Target?
Target is a huge corporation with over 400,000 staff nationwide. With the Great Resignation at its peak, they will always need new workers and most likely have vacancies and openings now.
There are so many jobs available to you, usually at the entry-level, all paying a minimum of $15/hour.
Some of the entry-level jobs available at Target to felons include:
- Cashier
- Truck Driver
- Equipment Operator
- Food Prep Worker
- Utility Attendant
- Front Store Attendant
How Can I Increase My Chances of Getting Hired?
It can be easy to feel discouraged if you apply for a job with a felony and don’t end up getting it. Sometimes, some felonies make it difficult to get hired anywhere.
While Target has stated that it is anti-discriminatory in its hiring, it can still be hard to secure a job regardless. However, there are ways to impress your employer and increase your chances of getting hired.
Apply For Many Openings
Firstly, apply for as many openings as possible. While you should find a job that you would enjoy, sometimes, it’s best to cover all your bases and try out for various jobs to increase your chances of getting selected.
Be Honest About Your History
Secondly, be honest and open. If you’re asked about your conviction history in later interviews, try not to lie about them. Every employer would appreciate your honesty, as that is a desirable quality for any employee.
Prepare a Solid Resume
Impress your future employer with a detailed and well-made resume or cover letter that highlights your skills and abilities, as well as your qualifications.
Try to appeal to the employer by letting them know how you can contribute to the job and provide value to the organization.
Ace Your Interview
The interview process is where you really get to showcase your skills and appeal to your employer. Make sure to appear as professional as possible and learn a bit about the company before your interview.
Prepare yourself with answers for common interview questions, and display confidence in your skills and abilities. Tell them about your commitment to getting better and improving your life.
You can also stand out from other applicants by emphasizing your skills, work ethic, and goals within the company.
Show Your Commitment
Finally, try to show the employer that you will be committed and dedicated to the job if you get hired. Try to keep a clean record before and during your time working at the company.
Also, be clear about your goals as an employee during/after the hiring process. Doing this will boost your chances of getting hired and also staying hired.
Conclusion
Target has inclusive policies to ensure that felons get a second chance at re-integration and self-sufficiency after their convictions.
There are many jobs to apply for at Target, and they have practices to ensure fairness to felons in their hiring process. Target also does not ask any conviction history in the early stage of the hiring process and only does a background check later on.
Still have questions about getting a job at Target? Let us know your concerns in the comments below!