CAREER PROGRESSION: Attitude and Character

During speaking engagements across the country, I’m often asked about
tactics to secure career progression. Though responses differ from
audience to audience, there remains a shared set to follow.

FAQ #1: Just began an entry-level position, how can I keep the job and let my employer know she made the right choice?

Answer #1: If you were
hired, chances are good your employer believes you have the skills to
complete the job and WANTS you to succeed. Unfortunately, being able to
get the job done doesn’t mean career progression or job security.

• The most qualifying quality new hires can possess is attitude. For those faking attitude, don’t fool yourself, employers are smarter than a first grader.
  Look at it this way, if you were an employer, would you keep (and
  promote) employees with a positive attitude, a willingness to follow
  your guidelines without whining, and an eagerness to learn or would you
  keep employee who go against the grain and your proven processes?

FAQ #2: I was released from county jail last year and can’t get a job.

Answer #2: There is an indirect relationship between recidivism and employment: higher the employment rate, the lower the recidivism rate. This common reality is often ignored by politicians and businesses (we can get into that issue in upcoming sessions).

Keeping it real

Though each justice-involved individual, circumstances, and
consequences vary, there remain issues demanding immediate attention:

• Keep it real. You are re-entering an un-friendly environment so best hold dreams on the ground level for now.
• One way to get that job is to increase employer incentives by way of federal government programs and offering your services below cost. Yes, you heard it, consider working at a decreased wage (or even at no wage) for a designated time; getting in the door is more important than watching Jerry Springer!
• Character is key… employers willing to give you an opportunity believe you will do the right thing. Now is the time to represent in a professional, courteous, and respectful manner.

In future articles, we will detail FAQs with real-life examples and open the floor for conversation. For now, we’ll rely on character and attitude to keep us on the right path.

2^nd Chance University is a non-profit designed for those who have stumbled within our justice system as they regain their Commitment, Hope, and Empowerment.

I welcome your stories to be added into our series. If you chose to
share or support, email me directly at dhuffman@2ndChanceUniversity.org.

Danny Huffman
407-878-0474
www.2ndChanceUniversity.org