With the shortage of skilled laborers looming, companies should be aware of a key demographic they might be missing in their recruitment efforts. Through initiatives like the second-chance hiring program companies are able to successfully hire and retain employees with criminal records.

Construction Business Owner reports in an article, A Willing Workforce (With Criminal Records), that 19 million Americans have a felony conviction, yet over half didn’t receive an actual prison sentence.

Much like veterans who are transitioning back to civilian life, hiring someone with a criminal record may require additional support systems. Whether it’s through local support groups, mentoring programs, or additional financial support, investing in employees establishes high productivity and loyalty which leads to lower turnover rates.

There are numerous resources for companies looking to develop a second-chance hiring program, like local non-profit workforce development agencies, or local churches. These resources can assist Human Resource departments in putting the right systems in place to allow those with a criminal record to thrive in the workplace.

Read article: Construction Business Owner