I am also a graduate of a 4 year university with a degree in computer science. I have worked gainfully since I graduated (roughly 5 years ago) as a software developer for a variety of start-ups, and as a "contractor" whom was eventually hired full-time at a mid-sized business. Well some of the start-up jobs were less than "highly paid" as my career has advanced, I've easily bested all my friends and most of my family in pay and benefits.

In the start-up world it's easy to avoid the question because most small start-ups lack the infrastructure to perform regular background checks on perspective employees, and new-hires often come on a "word of mouth basis" so my attitude has always been: honesty is the best policy, when asked I'm always totally upfront. However, most don't ask.

My question is: I've recently been contacted by recruiters at much larger corporations (some of which I would very much like to experience and work for, internet-tech top-fivers like: Facebook, Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Salesforce, etc.). I also feel that my skills have reached a level where my candidacy is viable. I would like to add a job at these company's to my resume and hopefully while there make connections in the start-up world.

That being said, if I submit myself to these rigorous interviews, what should I expect when I ultimately have to disclose my felony conviction and "explain" it to a recruiter / hiring manager?

At this time there is a remote possibility that I could apply to have my record sealed in another 2-3 years depending on adjustments in state law. Should I wait to apply to this companies until after I see how the law changes?

##ratelimit from HN will respond when I can