Finding a job in today’s economic climate is already a difficult endeavor. Pick up a copy of Newsweek on any given occasion and you’re likely to find a story about some ex-President of the Harvard Law Review getting laid off from his job as a busboy. Times are tough — and they’re even tougher for those with criminal records. Still, there is reason for hope. This article will give advice for those with criminal records to find a job, even without a degree from Harvard.

What will you need? Only a computer, and maybe not even that. You can get yourself off to a great start by thinking about the future: if you are currently serving time, now is the best time to prepare yourself. Take advantage of the opportunities offered to get your GED, a college education, or vocational training. Begin to read about work in a field that you are interested in. Be realistic in the sense that if you are convicted of armed robbery, you probably won’t be able to work for a bank. Likewise, if you’re overweight, you probably won’t be a pro basketball player. However, do not assume that your record will disqualify you from a job that you would otherwise qualify for. Now is not the time to feel discouraged.

In reading about jobs that you are interested in, keep in mind that government services are available to not only help you get a degree, but also to get a job. Click here for a link to the California Division of Adult Parole Operations, which can help if you are or will be a parolee.

Next, it’s important to remember to be honest. Never, ever lie about your criminal history on a job application, for that in itself is a crime. Try to get an offense sealed or expunged from your record. Ask your attorney, public defender, or parole/probation officer whether you may be able to get the offense removed from your record so that you can legally and ethically answer “no” to conviction questions. If that doesn’t work, it may be a smart tactic to write “Ask” in the application field which asks about your criminal record. That will allow you an opportunity to explain yourself. Use it wisely.

If all fails, employ yourself. You could start a yard maintenance business or provide contract IT services to companies, for example. You don’t need a multimillion dollar studio to start a rap career. You are limited only by your imagination. Think about what you’re good at and what you like doing, and go for it. You’ll probably need to have another job while you’re getting your business on its feet, but if your record has you stuck in dead-end jobs, you might as well take a chance.