As a job seeker, you are probably curious about the employment screening process and how it impacts your search for the perfect career. We here at JDP want to make you informed and ready before your background check. To help you out, we are answering some Frequently Asked Questions to help put your mind at ease. Today’s question is:
What information can my employer find when they order a background check?
A background check is not meant to be an invasive investigation into your private life. For employers, it is a tool that allows them to make sure you are who you say you are and to prevent any work related issues that might arise in the future. For job seekers, it is a way to demonstrate that you earned all of your credentials and that you are likely to be an upstanding employee. A background screening during the hiring process will also make sure that other people competing for your job are doing so on an even playing field. You can be sure that no one is getting an unfair edge because of falsified credentials.
All background checks by law must be done with your knowledge and consent, so don’t worry about anyone diving into your records without permission. Employment screenings usually involve …
- Calling your references to discover a little bit more about how you behave on the job.
- Verifying your past employment to make sure your credentials are real.
- Checking your criminal history to see if there are any red flags that might be reflected in your job performance.
- Civil suits and judgments in the past 7 years
- A possible credit check including bankruptcies in the past 10 years
- News reports and other public information
- A possible drug screening
Background checks are limited by laws that vary from state to state and by the Fair Credit Reporting Act. A reputable employment screening company will be able to navigate these laws without infringing on your rights, but it is always a good idea to know your rights and be informed about the process. Most employers will allow you to verbally address any concerns that may have arisen as a result of your background check. You are also allowed to ask for a copy of the report to ensure that all the information collected is correct.
If you have any questions, please contact us!