The perceptions of human resource managers' interviewing and hiring of black male ex-offenders in the southeast United State

This study was conducted to get an understanding of the perceptions held by human resource (HR) managers while interviewing and hiring Black male ex-offenders in the southeast United States. The specific problem in this qualitative study derived from the view that the perceptions of HR managers appear to be less favorable toward hiring Black male ex-offenders compared to male ex-offenders of other races. These perceptions toward Black males can make it difficult for them to obtain employment. A total of 20 HR managers were interviewed about their perceptions toward interviewing and hiring Black male ex-offenders in the southeast United States. Data were collected via two face-to-face, recorded interviews and a demographic questionnaire. The 20 HR managers selected for this study were from the following industries: sales/service, hospitality/food, construction, and utilities. As a result, the study revealed that HR managers' perceptions toward interviewing and hiring Black male ex-offenders in the southeast United States were positive. HR managers were willing to give Black male ex-offenders a second chance upon their release from prison to gain employment. Many of them stated they were willing to give ex-offenders a second chance; however, it depended on the crime committed and the length of time since the crime occurred. It also depended on the type of job for which ex-offenders were applying. However, even though HR managers were willing to interview and hire Black male ex-offenders, trust issues remain until the ex-offenders prove themselves otherwise. This study may provide valuable and beneficial information in assisting HR managers with bridging the gap between Black male ex-offenders and male ex-offenders of other races in the interviewing and hiring process.