The References Exist. The Challenge Is Knowing Where to Look.
Fair Chance Hiring
The References Exist. The Challenge Is Knowing Where to Look.
By J. Coz
One of the most overlooked barriers facing formerly incarcerated job seekers isn’t a lack of skills, experience, or motivation. It’s something much smaller on paper but often much larger in practice: the reference section of a job application.
For many people returning from incarceration, that blank space can feel impossible to fill. Years may have passed since they worked for a traditional employer. Relationships with former supervisors may have faded. Some may assume that because they were incarcerated, they simply don’t have anyone who can speak to their character or work ethic.
But that’s not true.
During incarceration, people are observed every day — not for a few hours during a work shift, but over months and often years. The people around them witness how they handle adversity, conflict, responsibility, disappointment, routine, and growth. These are the very traits employers say they want to understand when evaluating a candidate.
The challenge isn’t that these references don’t exist. The challenge is recognizing them.
“In fact, many formerly incarcerated individuals have references who have observed them more closely and consistently than most traditional workplace supervisors ever could.”
Who Qualifies as a Reference
Correctional Officers & Crew Supervisors
They can speak directly to reliability, attitude, accountability, and the ability to follow directions — who showed up consistently, who treated others with respect, and who took responsibility for their actions.
Vocational Instructors & Educators
Whether someone earned a GED or completed vocational training, instructors witnessed their commitment to learning — their perseverance, discipline, and willingness to invest in a better future.
COIIIs and COIVs
They often have the broadest perspective — tracking progress over time, helping individuals navigate challenges, and witnessing growth that may not be visible to others. Deep insight into character, goals, and determination.
Program Facilitators
Leaders of reentry programs, faith-based initiatives, and recovery groups have seen individuals choose growth, accountability, and personal development even when no one required them to do so.
For Job Seekers
Reach Out
Many of these professionals entered their fields because they believe people can change. They have witnessed transformation firsthand and are often willing to serve as a reference when they have seen someone genuinely put in the work.
For Employers
Consider the Source
When you receive a reference from a correctional officer, instructor, or program facilitator, don’t dismiss it because it comes from a correctional setting. In many cases, they’ve had a front-row seat to character, consistency, and resilience under circumstances most of us will never experience.
Fair chances require open minds.
The reference list was never empty. It just needed a different lens.
Sometimes the strongest references are the ones standing in plain sight.