Pathway 2

Candidates With a Criminal History:
When is a Criminal Record Relevant to the Hiring Decision?

A criminal record is relevant only if it directly and negatively relates to the job.

Key Stats by the numbers:

• • Approximately 70+ million Americans have an arrest or conviction record
• • Approximately 600,000 men and women are released from jail each year

While 90% of employers conduct background checks, this often leads to qualified candidates being overlooked. Applicants with records are 50% less likely to be called for a second interview. However, research shows Second Chance hires perform just as well as, or better than, other employees, and securing employment significantly reduces the risk of reoffending.

Employers are encouraged to assess whether a past conviction is relevant to the job, considering factors like the nature of the offense, how much time has passed, and the job responsibilities. Connecticut’s Ban the Box law also restricts when and how employers can ask about criminal history, helping ensure candidates are considered for their skills first.

How should we plug in these numbers for better outcomes?