If you are someone who has a felony record and looking to make a new start then having a stable job is the most important step in your journey.
Having a stable job helps you manage you finances and also makes it relatively easier securing an apartment of any other form of accommodation. If you are someone who takes interest in food business then IHOP might be a place to look for a job.
International House of Pancakes (IHOP) is one of the most familiar brands providing tasty breakfast throughout the US.
Although there is no official word about hiring felons but a lot of past examples indicate that IHOP is open to hiring people with minor felony offenses and they have an open mind when it comes to hiring process.
99% of IHOP outlets are owned by franchisees so the rules might vary from one outlet to other and also local rules might influence the hiring process.
In general, it is observed that stores run by local owners are more open to hiring local people even if they have felony records.
IHOP provides competitive salaries and good performance-based incentives for all its employees.
Like all food industry jobs, IHOP jobs also involve long working hours but employee reviews in terms of job satisfaction, cultural environment and payment is mostly positive.
What factors play an important role in getting a job at IHOP?
Some of the factors that influence the hiring decisions are as follows:
Type of crime – The chance of getting hired is greater if the felony charge is minor and not something like murder or robbery.
Time duration since the crime – Usually people who committed a felony offence 5-10 years ago are considered safer to hire as the chances of them committing the felony again is same as of any other person.
One-time offenders – One-time offenders have a greater chance of getting hired compared to repeated offenders.
In general, food industry is more open to hiring people with records compared to other sectors.
What skills do I need to work at IHOP?
IHOP is a customer facing business and in general they need approachable and people-friendly employees. Again, certain job roles require specific skills but having a smiling face and pleasant personality is a must. Typical job roles at IHOP are dishwasher, chefs, servers and hosts.
Since the IHOP outlets operate 24x 7, you should be ready to work long hours and take shifts. You should also be prepared to handle late night crowd. If you are someone who can handle stress and manage people then this might be the perfect opportunity for you to shine.
Industry
Fast Food
Ban The Box
Information not available
Training Program
No special training programs for felons
Probability of finding a Job
High
Does IHOP do a background check?
Like most other employers, IHOP does not want to hire people who might not succeed. Someone who will quit after a few days will be a lost of time an effort for the company. So IHOP evaluates the job applications on multiple parameters.
IHOP conducts background check on anyone who is offered a job. It is mandatory of the company to take consent from the employee before conducting background checks.
It is usually the best practice to be open about your criminal history and put your side with reasonable explanations so that the employer can trust you. One thing to understand is that an increasing number of employers are getting dragged into courts for not maintaining workplace safety.
So it becomes essential for the employer to make sure they don’t hire any person who might be dangerous to other employees or customers.
Additionally, background checks also include the following
- Educational records
- Driving records
- Credit reports
- Criminal history
- Employment history
What is the Interview process at IHOP?
Hiring process at IHOP starts with an online application. Job listings are regularly posted on IHOP career page. You will have to fill up an online form and attach a copy of your resume.
It is essential to have a good resume that lists out you past work experiences if any and also highlight any relevant training you might have received. The online form has some standard questions like past job experiences and contact details.
If selected, you will be called for an interview. Interview is usually conducted by panel that includes store managers, assistant managers and shift supervisor. It is important to be confident and show enthusiasm throughout the interview. IHOP is looking for energetic and passionate individuals who can handle customers with ease.
Be open about your criminal records but also highlight how you have contributed to the society and worked on becoming a better person. Keep eye contact while answering questions and maintain a good posture. Be polite and respectful to the interviewers at all times.
Keep the following things in mind while appearing for the interview.
- Reach the venue at least 10-15 mins before the scheduled time so that you get time to calm down and freshen up to get comfortable. It’s a good opportunity to shows your enthusiasm and your willingness to put extra effort.
- Dress up neatly and keep good personal hygiene as you will be working in the food industry and these qualities are a must.
- Get rid of any tattoos or piercings that can make you look unpleasant.
- Keep a resume with personal and contact details handy.
- Be optimistic and let the confidence show in your body language. Be polite and patient while answering questions.
- Try to be honest and respectful towards the interviewers.
- Don’t put too many conditions be ready to work in shifts. Your willingness to adjust will increase your chances of getting hired.
Find job openings
You can find job opening at IHOP by visiting their job portal given below.