What Are the Benefits of Second Chance Employment for Businesses?

There are lots! Second chance employment is not charity or a handout. It is a genuine opportunity for businesses to find workers who will make a positive impact. Some of the benefits businesses can expect are:

Access to a deep talent pool

Individuals in recovery and those with criminal convictions present a wide range of educational and employment backgrounds. And there is less competition for this worker pool since many employers are apprehensive about exploring it. Employers who are open to these hires will often find multiple options for hard-to-fill positions.

Easy way to increase DEI

Since many of those with criminal justice involvement are people of color, being open to hiring from this group of individuals might naturally address any diversity initiatives that a company implements.

Stronger Community

Higher employment leads to lower poverty, homelessness, and crime. Providing second-chance employment for individuals contributes to these improvements and adds to the tax base of the community.

Loyal Employees

Employers who have made a practice of second chance hiring report greater employee loyalty. This comes from employees who are grateful for an opportunity, but it may also be because employees with criminal convictions may have fewer employment options elsewhere, which also contributes to increased longevity.

Tax benefits and protections

Businesses can take advantage of the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC), which provides tax relief for employers who hire individuals with felony convictions. The Federal Bonding Program provides free insurance to protect against employee dishonesty on or off the job site.