As a convicted felon filling out applications for jobs can be discouraging. Especially, once you arrive at that one question. That question regarding your criminal history.
I understand the frustration a felon feels while job hunting. Your record can feel like a weight that is only holding you back. Some companies unfortunately, will refuse your application solely based on having a record.
Luckily, many companies like Walgreens do employ felons. The application process is actually a breeze. We will go into detail about that later.
So, do these establishments still run background checks? Does Walgreens run a background check?
Walgreens does run a background check. That fact should not discourage you from applying though. It is so important to remember that even by applying for jobs you are making improvements from your past mistakes.
If you are a felon looking for a job that is not a pharmacy store, I encourage you to check out https://jobsforfelonsnow.com. This is a great database for felons looking to find information about perspective jobs.
Background Checks
First, let’s talk about what a background check is.
Employers run background checks to avoid hiring someone who may pose a threat or be a liability to their establishment. These checks help to confirm that a person is who they claim to be.
Once a background check has been done an employer will gain access to:
- Credit reports
- Driving records
- Educational records
- Criminal offenses
Background checks may seem daunting to those who have a criminal history. This is especially true if they have bettered themselves from their past mistakes; or have been denied by other establishments simply based on being an ex-convict.
Background checks show all convictions and non-convictions. This includes all cases not prosecuted or dismissed. It is possible to run a background check on yourself.
Running a check on yourself can show what the employer will have access to. More on this later, though!
A background check educates the employer further about the candidate. It enhances the employer’s knowledge on the candidate’s character. It informs the employer of the candidate’s past in depth.
Overall, a background check helps to ensure an employer such as Walgreens with a sound hire.
Applying To Walgreens
Walgreens is one of the largest pharmacy-store chains in the United States. The company operates more than 9,000 stores around the United States.
Walgreens fills prescriptions and offers health-related information. You can expect to find health/wellness products in the store. The store offers photo services as well.
The application to become an employee begins online. To apply you must be at least 18 years of age. You must create an account to get started.
Creating an account will require some basic information. It will ask you your name, email address, and what position you are applying for.
Some positions available at Walgreens are as follows:
- Customer service associate
- Photo Specialist
- Beauty consultant
- Beauty Advisor
- Shift Leader
- Pharmacy
- Distribution Center Worker
The online application focuses on employment history and references. An in-person interview will follow if the applicant deems worthy. An in-store skills assessment test will take place as well as a background check.
Walgreens Background Check
Walgreens is not a part of the “Ban the Box movement”. This movement is to discourage employers from disregarding applicants because of their records. Not to be discouraged though, many other companies who hire ex-convicts do not participate in the campaign.
I encourage you to check out https://jobsforfelonsnow.com. This is a great database for felons looking to find information about perspective jobs. These jobs may or may not be a part of the “Ban the Box movement”.
Most establishments require a background check upon hire. Walgreens will conduct a background check as a part of the hiring process.
With consent a criminal background check will take place. Walgreens will not deny a potential employee just for obtaining a felony. With some exceptions, a felony does not accurately describe the person who receives it.
Walgreens background checks obtain records from the previous seven years. It can typically take up to a week for results. Results will need to go under further review.
If you are an ex-convict the nature of your felony will have to be further examined by the hiring manager. The hiring manager’s personal opinions play a large role in the decision.
Some factors during review include the type of felony conviction. Another factor is if the felony was violent or a not. The time since the conviction will play a part in review.
Can Your Run A Background Check On Yourself?
Like I said before, you can run a background check on yourself. You may be wondering:
“Why does this matter?”
Well, running a background check on yourself prior to an interview can benefit you greatly. Doing so can increase your chances of getting hired. You can review what the employer will have access to.
There are a few ways to run a check on oneself. Acquiring information from the court is one option. There are many online databases that can run reports as well.
It is important to be fully aware of your own criminal history. All questions regarding criminal history should be answered accurately and truthfully. It is never a good idea to lie about the past or present when applying for a job.
Again, Walgreens will not deny a potential employee just for obtaining a felony. Running a check on oneself prior to an interview just aids in preparation.
Helpful Tips When Applying To Walgreens
If you are a convicted felon, it should not hinder you from applying for a job. Walgreens will run a background check, but they will not deny you just because of a felony.
Running a background check on yourself can help you to be more prepared. This will make you aware of what a potential employer has access to. Rehearsing questions that may arise with a friend or family can be beneficial.
One helpful tip is to have reliable references. The online application for Walgreens requires you to have a few. Having references who can attest to the fact that your lifestyle has changed can be helpful.
Another helpful tip is to run a background check on yourself. This can help you to be more prepared. Rehearsing questions that may arise with a friend or family member can be beneficial as well.
It is important to be flexible and positive. Being open to various hours and tasks is always a great quality of an employee. Of course, always be professional, dress appropriately and show enthusiasm
Overall it is important to be honest about your personal information and history. You should not hide information regarding your felony. Instead, explain the facts and show that your felony does not define you.
In Conclusion
Walgreens does run a background check.
Do not let your record feel as if it is a weight dragging you down. Just because Walgreens runs a background check does not mean that you have no chance at the job. Focus on the positive and go get that job!
If you are a felon looking for a job is not at Walgreens. I encourage you to check out https://jobsforfelonsnow.com. This is a great database for felons looking to find information about perspective jobs.