It can be difficult to find your footing after dealing with criminal charges. It can feel as though employers do not want to hire those with a criminal history.
Luckily, this is not the case. There are many companies who strive to make things easier for those who have been convicted of a felony.
Jobs in the retail industry can be a great place to start. Large retail companies require a large amount of employees. Ross, the largest off-price retailer in The United States may come to mind when seeking a job.
As a felon it is easy to feel a bit of intimidation when it comes to applying for jobs. You may wonder exactly what will come up if you get an interview. If a background check will be a requirement or not.
If you are considering applying to a retail company like Ross you might question- Does Ross run a background check?
Keeping reading to learn more about Ross, applying for a position, and background checks.
Ross
Ross is an American chain of discount department stores. Established in 1982, it is now the largest off-price retailer in The United States. With headquarters in Dublin, California- they now operate over 1,400 stores in The United States, District of Colombia, and Guam.
As a company, Ross is dedicated to providing customers with high quality products at low prices. They bring in quality department and specialty store brands at very affordable prices.
They are able to do this being the largest off-price retailer in the United States. This means they have a leg up when it comes to purchasing power.
Ross takes pride in being savvy. Their buyers search all over for the best brands and latest styles!
They are able to sell their items at such low prices due to their “no-frills” policy. They do not have mannequins, fixtures, window displays or any decoration in store. They choose to do this so that they are able to pass more savings on to the customers!
At Ross they only want the best for their customers and employees. Background checks are essential to ensure that the company has only good hires.
A background check can sound intimidating, especially to those who obtain a felon. Honesty and positivity can speak more than what is on paper though. Keep reading to learn all about what a background check entails.
Background Checks
Most companies out there will run a background check.
As a felon, background checks should not intimidate you. Getting to the point of needing a background check shows that you have made changes to better your life.
A background check gives an employer access to:
- Credit reports
- Driving records
- Educational records
- Criminal offenses
This may seem like a lot of information. Though it may be frightening, It should not keep someone from applying.
The purpose of a background check is to ensure a good hire. Employers run a background check to avoid hiring someone who may pose a threat or be a liability to their establishment.
It helps to educate the employer regarding the potential employee by informing the employer of the candidate’s past in depth. Background checks show all convictions and non-convictions. This includes all cases not prosecuted or dismissed.
Overall, a background check is to help make sure the company is making a sound hire.
Does Ross Run a Background Check?
Before hiring, permission to run a background check will take place. A pre-employment drug test will also take place. If you do not give permission for either of these things to happen, you will not be hired.
The background check will take a look at any felony conviction that took place in the last seven years. You should not let this stop you from applying though.
Ross does not have any official guidelines in place regarding felons. This means that it comes down to the hiring managers decision. Therefore, it is crucial that you are honest and positive from the very start. Forming this personal connection will increase your chances of getting the job!
The hiring manager will take various things into consideration. Some things that may come into consideration are as follows:
- Nature of the conviction
- Amount of convictions
- Time since the crime took place
Again, all questions regarding your criminal history should be answered truthfully before and after the background check takes place.
The hiring manager will also consider the applicants experience and skill against their criminal history. It can be very helpful to highlight your skills and any experience you have dealing with retail or customers.
The fear of a background check should not stop you from starting the application process at Ross.
Jobs at Ross
Jobs at Ross provide competitive wages and reward workers who show strong performance. They also offer many opportunities to advance in the workplace.
There are many entry-level positions that Ross stores have to offer. A few entry-level positions are as follows:
- Retail associate
- Stockroom associate
- Customer service representative
- Warehouse worker
Ross offers a dynamic culture in the workplace. Their associates include those of diverse backgrounds and varied life experiences. At Ross they listen to their teams and value feedback.
If this sounds like a company you would enjoy being a part of, start applying!
Application Process
Being the largest off-price retailer in The United States, there are plenty of job opportunities at Ross.
As a company, Ross looks for individuals who are positive and ready to work in a fast-paced environment. They focus on empowering employees to provide ethical and rewarding work.
The minimum age requirement is 18 years old. The application is quite straightforward and just requires some basic personal information.
They will of course need a bit of contact information. Your Social Security Number, education, and work experience will be needed.
If you get an interview it is so important to be honest when answering all questions, especially the questions regarding your criminal history.
If a positive and trusting relationship is made with the hiring manager, the background check will be a breeze.
Conclusion
Ross is an American chain of discount department stores. They are known for their “no-frill” policy that helps them to keep their item prices so low!
They are a company that is growing and expanding. Offering many entry-level job opportunities.
Ross does require a background check. This should not discourage you from applying. There is no policy in place against hiring felons onto the team. It comes down to the hiring manager’s judgement.
Stay positive and be honest throughout the process.
If a job at Ross does not interest you, there are other retail job opportunities for felons out there.