On-the-Job Primer

Answers to Questions about Ex-Offender Job Issues

The following are questions and experiences you might face as a new job hunter or as someone who is currently on-the-job.  The answers will help you understand and navigate the work environment.

If you have a question about work that you would like answered, please visit the Ask the Author page to find out more information about how to submit your question.

 

Q. "How do you handle a positive CORI check from three to four years ago?  People change, but you’re treated the same.” (Brian, Massachusetts)

 A. Brian, I understand that CORI is a big issue in Massachusetts at this time. I did some research into the history of CORI, and understand that most employers want to check for a criminal record when one applies for a job, and other employers must do a criminal check on each employee.  Employers such as hospitals, schools and other agencies where an employee may deal with children or patients, are particularly concerned about employees that may have a positive CORI.  In other industries, it may not be as difficult to find work.

 

However, if a positive CORI applies to you, don’t be frustrated if you have had difficulty finding a job.  There are many resources in the state of Massachusetts to help those with a positive CORI.  You should work with a career counselor and discuss how to approach employers knowing you have had a positive CORI, and you should be guided on how to answer questions about your positive CORI.  Following are some of the resources that you might want to check out and get further information on this issue.  Many of these resources are based in Boston, but I would call them and they will probably be able to refer you to a resource in your local area.

 

• Massachusetts Department of Workplace Development -  617-626-5733.  They will answer questions about your CORI record.

• The Work Place – This is another Boston resource for individuals who would like career counseling.  They have a specific workshop they do for individuals with a positive CORI. (617-737-0093)

• Goodwill Industries (www.goodwill.org) has a long history of working with ex-offenders and providing job resources.  You can go on their website and find the Goodwill office nearest you.

• Massachusetts Law Reform Institute’s CORI project – Because a positive CORI has made it difficult for some people to get a job, this institute is working to reform the law relating to employers’ access and use of CORI.  This institute also runs CORI workshops around Massachusetts.  You can call Lena Wilson at 617-357-0700 X319 for more information.

As you can see, Brian, there is a lot of help out there for people with a positive CORI.