If you are like most inmates, you spent a lot of time in prison thinking about how great your life would be once you got out. The plan was to get a job, rent a home and live happily ever after. Related:  How to Find Work After Prison Now you know getting a job with a felony conviction on your record is not as easy as it sounded behind the wall. Take these steps to maximize your chances of finding work. Get Out and Network Put the word out to everyone you know that you are looking for a job. Initially, it won’t matter where you work, the point is to get your foot in the door somewhere and start rebuilding your resume from there. Tell, friends, family members, neighbors and former co-workers and anyone you encounter that you want a job and will take just about anything you can find. You can always switch jobs later. The goal is to get one to start with. You never know who might be able to help. Showing a positive attitude will make the difference. Find Out About Available Help The Goodwill has a national program to assist hard to place employees – including felons -- in finding work. Call your local Goodwill and ask where their nearest Career Center is located. Make use of their services: • resume building •  interview skill training and j •  job leads. There also may be other felon assistance programs in your county available. Ask at the Goodwill, city hall and online. Work the Numbers It can be discouraging to apply over and over only to be turned down due to your felony, but it is a numbers game. Put in at least five applications a day until you find a job. Own the Interview Focus on your skills for the job and keep the information about your record short and sweet. You made a poor choice, you paid for it, and now you are moving forward. Highlight your skills that are perfect for the job and your willingness to take on responsibilities. Don’t minimize your crime. Own it and say you learned from being incarcerated and then go back to your job skills and talents. Final thoughts: You will hear stories on the news about the high rate of felons returning to jail and prison, but for every one going back there are dozens who are not. They just don’t get media attention. Refuse to give up, hold your head high and you will find a job and begin life again. You May Be Interested In:  Decide You’re Going To Get A Job video