If you have a criminal record, you know the anxiety and challenges that come with job hunting. Surveys show that up to 75% of formerly incarcerated individuals are still unemployed a year after being released. This is a disheartening statistic, especially given research indicating that steady employment is one of the key factors in reducing recidivism.
However, there has been a growing movement in recent years to provide more opportunities to those with conviction histories. The "Ban the Box" campaign has pushed to restrict when employers can ask about criminal records in the hiring process. A number of major companies have also stepped up to expand their consideration of applicants with prior justice involvement.
One such employer that has made notable changes is Target, the popular retail giant. In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll take a deep dive into Target‘s current stance on hiring felons, their hiring process, and expert advice on how to maximize your chances of landing a job.
How Many Felons Are Seeking Employment?
To understand the significance of Target‘s hiring practices, it‘s important to look at the broader landscape of felons and employment. Consider these statistics:
- Approximately 600,000 people are released from federal and state prisons each year (Bureau of Justice Statistics)
- It‘s estimated that 19 million Americans have a felony conviction (The Sentencing Project)
- A study found that 60-75% of ex-offenders are jobless up to a year after release (Brookings)
- Over 80% of companies perform background checks on applicants (SHRM)
As you can see, a huge number of Americans are impacted by having a record when seeking employment. For the nearly 1 in 3 adults with a criminal record, getting hired is a critical step toward re-entering society successfully.
Target‘s Changing Approach to Hiring Felons
Historically, most major retailers had blanket bans against hiring felons. Having a conviction on your record often meant being automatically disqualified, no matter the job or circumstance.
However, in 2018 Target reached a landmark settlement that led the company to overhaul its screening policies. The class action lawsuit alleged that Target‘s criminal background check process disproportionately disqualified Black and Latino applicants. As part of the agreement, Target agreed to:
- Remove criminal history questions from initial job applications
- Wait until after a conditional job offer to conduct a background check
- Give applicants a chance to provide context or dispute any criminal records
- Conduct an individualized assessment of convictions and only disqualify those that would impact the specific job
"We recognize the importance of having a workforce that reflects the communities we serve, including individuals who may have been impacted by the criminal justice system," said Target in a statement on the changes.
Target‘s reforms reflect a broader shift happening across states and employers. Fourteen states and over 20 cities now have Ban the Box laws that require private employers to remove conviction questions from job applications. Companies like Starbucks, Home Depot, and Walmart have also moved to remove these inquiries from initial applications in recent years.
What Convictions Could Disqualify You at Target?
All that said, it‘s important to understand that Target doesn‘t hire all felons automatically. The company still has to consider the safety of its customers and employees. Certain convictions are more likely to be disqualifying based on the job and perceived risk.
While Target doesn‘t provide a definitive list, convictions that would likely raise red flags include:
- Violent crimes (aggravated assault, robbery, etc.)
- Sexual offenses (sexual assault, sexual misconduct with a minor, etc.)
- Theft and fraud, especially retail theft and identity theft
- Crimes against children
- Drug manufacturing, distribution or trafficking
It‘s not just the type of conviction that matters, but also the recency and relevancy to the position. A felony drug possession conviction from 15 years ago is more likely to be overlooked than an assault conviction from last year, for example. And a theft crime may not disqualify you from an unrelated job like a stocker, but would likely prevent you from working a cash register.
John Passen, a re-entry career coach, advises his clients to be upfront and realistic. "Target isn‘t going to put someone with a history of stealing in charge of store inventory. Applicants need to aim for jobs that don‘t directly intersect with their prior convictions. It‘s about finding the right fit."
Target‘s Hiring Process for Felons
So how does Target‘s current hiring process work if you have a felony record? Let‘s break it down step by step.
1. The Application
First, you‘ll fill out an online application through Target‘s career website. The application asks for your education, work history, references, and availability.
Notably, you will NOT be asked to disclose your criminal history at this stage. Target removed that question from initial applications as part of their 2018 reforms.
One tip at this phase is to carefully review your application for accuracy before submitting. Even a small discrepancy between your stated history and what later shows up on a background check can raise concerns about truthfulness. Be sure everything aligns.
2. The Interview
If Target‘s hiring team thinks you could be a good fit, they‘ll reach out to schedule an interview. This is usually an in-person interview at the store location with the hiring manager. For some roles, there may be an initial phone or video interview.
"Preparing for the interview is absolutely critical," says Passen. "You want to focus on highlighting your relevant skills and experience. Dress professionally, practice common questions, and have specific examples ready of how you‘d excel in the role."
At the interview, let the hiring manager lead in terms of discussing your background. There‘s no need to bring up your record unless asked. Focus on making a strong impression and demonstrating why you‘re an excellent candidate.
3. The Conditional Job Offer
If the interview goes well, you may be extended a conditional job offer pending a background check and/or drug test. This is the point where Target will now look into your criminal history.
Once you accept the conditional offer, you‘ll receive instructions on next steps for the screening process, which is typically done through a third-party background check company.
4. The Background Check
The background check will flag any convictions on your record, which Target will now consider as part of their hiring decision.
If the check reveals prior felonies, you‘ll likely have a follow-up conversation with the hiring manager. This is your opportunity to provide context, details, and evidence of rehabilitation.
"When discussing your record, take ownership without making excuses," advises Passen. "Explain what happened, express remorse, and emphasize how you‘ve grown. Talk about what you‘ve learned and how you‘re a different person now."
Be prepared to provide supporting documentation of your rehabilitation, such as:
- Certificates of completion from any job training, education or substance abuse programs
- Letters of recommendation from counselors, mentors, professors, community leaders, etc.
- Performance reviews, attendance records or accolades from previous jobs or volunteer work
- Information on any awards, achievements or leadership roles post-conviction
5. The Drug Test
For certain positions, passing a drug test administered by the background check company is the final step of the hiring process. This is done at Target‘s discretion based on the specific role.
Keep in mind that Target tests for all drugs that are illegal under federal law, including marijuana. Even if you‘re in a state where cannabis is legal, it can still disqualify you from employment at Target.
6. The Onboarding
If you‘ve made it to this step, congratulations! You‘ve been hired and now it‘s time to set yourself up for success as a Target team member.
In addition to the typical new hire paperwork and training, make sure to:
- Thoroughly review the employee handbook and ask questions about anything you‘re unsure of
- Introduce yourself to your supervisors and co-workers, sharing your eagerness to do a great job
- Clarify expectations for your role and seek feedback regularly
- Take advantage of any mentorship opportunities or employee resource groups
- Perform your work with excellence and a great attitude, demonstrating that you were a fantastic hire
Expert Tips for Getting Hired at Target with a Felony
We interviewed several re-entry experts and former felons who have gone through the Target hiring process. Here are some of their top tips for applicants with conviction histories:
Start with your network. "See if you know anyone who works at Target or has a connection there who can vouch for you. An internal referral goes a long way." – Carlos, hired as a Target stocker in 2020
Choose your references wisely. "Pick people who can speak to your character, skills and transformation. Avoid choosing anyone with their own criminal history." – Maria, job coach who has helped several clients get hired at Target
Practice your elevator pitch. "In a few sentences, be able to explain your conviction, what you‘ve learned, and why it‘s made you a better person and employee. Rehearse this until you can deliver it confidently." – Jamal, convicted of felony drug possession and hired as a Target cashier in 2019
Connect your skills to the job. "In your interview, directly state how your abilities fit what‘s needed for the role. Use the language of the job description. Make it crystal clear why you‘re a great candidate." – Passen
Highlight your adaptability. "If you took classes, worked odd jobs or pursued other productive activities while incarcerated, emphasize how this shows your work ethic and flexibility." – Sonya, former Target manager who hired several employees with records
Don‘t neglect the basics. "It sounds simple, but show up early, dress professionally, be enthusiastic, and send a thank-you note. These things matter a lot, especially if an employer is taking a chance on you." – Carlos
Additional Resources
If you‘re a felon looking for job search help beyond Target, here are some valuable organizations and websites to explore:
- 70 Million Jobs – Job board for applicants with criminal records
- Honest Jobs – National re-entry employment platform
- Re-Entry Campus – Education and career guides for former offenders
- Help for Felons – Information on jobs, housing, and re-entry programs by state
- National H.I.R.E. Network – Advocacy group for policy change and employer education
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, getting hired with a felony is a challenge – but it‘s absolutely possible. More and more employers like Target are adopting fairer hiring practices and expanding opportunities for those with records.
The key is to be strategic, prepared, and persistent. Highlight your qualifications, own your history, and demonstrate genuine rehabilitation. With the right approach, you can find an employer who believes in second chances.
Remember, your conviction doesn‘t define you. Every year, thousands of formerly incarcerated individuals successfully re-enter the workforce and build flourishing careers. With hard work and dedication, you can be one of those success stories – whether at Target or beyond.
Target Felony Hiring FAQs
What entry-level jobs at Target are most likely to hire felons?
According to hiring experts, felons may have the most luck applying for roles like overnight stockers, backroom team members, and cart attendants. Certain departments like Grocery and Maintenance also tend to be more open to those with records. However, it depends on your specific conviction and the hiring manager.
Can you get hired at Target with a misdemeanor?
In general, candidates with misdemeanors have an easier time getting hired at Target than those with felonies. While a misdemeanor will still appear on a background check, it‘s usually less concerning to employers than a felony charge. It will still depend on the type of offense, how recent it was, and its relevance to the position.
What does Target look for in a background check?
Target‘s background checks are quite comprehensive, typically searching for criminal convictions at the federal, state and local levels over the past 7-10 years. They‘re mainly looking for serious convictions that could impact your ability to perform the job safely and reliably. Arrests that didn‘t lead to convictions are not considered.
How long does a Target background check take?
The average Target background check takes 3-7 business days to complete, though some can come back in as little as 24 hours. If there are any records found, it may take a few extra days to pull all the details. Target‘s hiring team will notify you if there are any delays. Feel free to check in if you haven‘t heard back within a week.
Does Target do background checks on all employees?
Yes, Target requires a criminal background check on anyone who receives a conditional offer of employment, no matter the position. However, these checks are run at the end of the hiring process, not the beginning. You‘ll have a chance to interview and receive an offer before your background is pulled.
Can you fail a Target background check and still get hired?
It‘s possible, depending on the hiring manager‘s discretion and assessment of your individual circumstances. Target follows EEOC guidelines in using a "Green Factors" test to determine if a conviction is closely enough related to the role to be disqualifying. If you‘re denied due to a background check, Target should provide you a copy of the results and let you dispute any inaccuracies.