From the hiring team at Whalls Group

We review hundreds of applications every month for correctional and detention facility roles—and most candidates don’t realize how small mistakes can raise big concerns.

At Whalls Group, we’re not looking for perfection. But we are looking for people who are reliable, honest, and ready to work in a high-stakes environment. If your resume or behavior during the process sends the wrong signals, it can slow you down—or disqualify you entirely.

Here are some of the top red flags we look out for, and what you can do to avoid them:

1. Inconsistent or Incomplete Work History

Gaps are okay—confusion is not. If your job timeline is unclear, missing dates, or filled with unexplained gaps, it raises concerns.

How to fix it: List your jobs clearly with start/end dates. If there was a gap, add a one-line explanation like:

“Full-time caregiver – March 2022 to February 2023” Honesty builds trust.

2. Recent Drug Use or Unclear Sobriety Timeline

Many facilities we recruit for require candidates to be drug-free for at least 3 years—including marijuana use, even where it’s legal.

How to fix it: If you’re actively using or haven’t hit the required window, it’s better to wait. If you’re in recovery and past the threshold, be prepared to explain your last use honestly during screening.

3. Unprofessional Communication

If you respond days later, use a nickname-only email, or miss scheduled calls without notice, it signals unreliability—something correctional environments can’t afford.

How to fix it: Use a professional email (like firstname.lastname@gmail.com), check messages daily, and treat all interactions with respect—even via text.

4. Not Following Application Instructions

If we ask for a resume and only get a name. If you’re supposed to complete a background form and skip it. These small oversights suggest you may struggle with policy or structure on the job.

How to fix it: Read every email and instruction carefully. If you’re unsure, ask. Attention to detail matters in this line of work.

5. Lack of Emotional Readiness

Some applicants underestimate the mental toughness required for corrections work. If your answers reflect impulsiveness, conflict, or a need for constant excitement, it can be a red flag.

How to fix it: If you’re serious about this path, show that you understand the gravity of the job. It’s not just a paycheck—it’s a role that requires stability and maturity. For more on this, visit our section on Emotional Readiness.

Final Thought:

We don’t expect you to be perfect—but we do expect you to be honest, prepared, and coachable. The people who succeed in this field are the ones who show they’re ready for the responsibility—on paper and in person.

Thinking About Applying?

We’re here to guide you through the process. Start strong by making sure your application reflects your best self. Visit our Candidate Resources page for more insights.