What Does an Employment Background Check Show?
Summary:
When you’re looking for a new job, it’s important to know that an employment background check is likely. Employers scrutinize everything from criminal records to social media assessments and delve into other aspects of your life that impact hiring decisions. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to manage your background check, helping you on the path to your next job.
You’ve breezed through the interview, and now your potential employer requests an employment background check. But have you ever pondered what this scrutiny entails and how it may influence your job prospects? Read on as we dissect the layers of an employment background check so you can gain a comprehensive understanding of the process and what it means for your future.
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What does an employment background check show?
Employment background checks vary and are contingent on a variety of factors. For example, the scope of the check depends on the individual, the position applied for, the employer’s requirements, and/or the third-party service used.
“The intricacies of background checks aren’t uniform across all roles,” explains Diana Ciechorska, general manager of Park Slope Cleaning, which conducts background checks on new hires.
It’s also important to be aware that employers and background-checking services must abide by federal and state regulations surrounding background checks. Among other factors, this includes disregarding race, gender identity, religion, and age when determining if an applicant is suitable for a position.
The following are common factors inspected during an employment background check:
Criminal records
Almost universally part of the process, a criminal history check reveals misdemeanor and felony convictions within a specified timeframe, often spanning seven years. The look-back period and types of offenses displayed may be influenced by state laws. Expunged or sealed records should be hidden, although some checks offer ongoing post-hiring monitoring.
If you do have a criminal history, it’s best to be upfront about this with your prospective employer. That way, you have the opportunity to explain the situation while also demonstrating your honesty. For example, if you have only a minor misdemeanor on your record but don’t disclose it yourself, you could be denied employment simply for being dishonest, regardless of your qualifications.
Employment history
The verification of dates, job titles, and responsibilities is a standard part of background checks. Many checks concentrate only on the factual aspects of your previous employment rather than delving into performance details. The level of scrutiny often depends on individual state laws governing information sharing during employment verifications. In any case, it’s crucial to be transparent about your past employment, says Shahrukh Zahir, founder of Right Fit Advisors.
“It’s about trust and character. These [checks] ensure that people are who they say they are. Many people add fluff to their resumes or interviews. More so now as well, background checks can also show what kind of employee they can be and how to best manage them and oversee them.”
Pro Tip
Many employers will ask you to provide professional references as part of their screening process. It’s important to ensure that you have a few reliable sources who will convey to prospective companies your value as an employee.
Education
Depending on the job you apply for, many employers require you to have at least some higher education to consider you for the position. A background check of education includes verifying that you attended the schools listed on your application or resume and earned any degrees or credentials you claim to have. Some employers may also take the process a step further and verify your GPA and any honors you achieved as well.
Again, like with other aspects of your history, you won’t do yourself any favors by embellishing your academic career. You could be the best person for the job, but if a background check reveals that you didn’t actually graduate, you could lose the position due to dishonesty. However, if you’re candid, you have a much better chance of success, says Ciechorska.
Credit history
Especially pertinent for finance-related roles, employers sometimes take a look at your credit history for insights into your financial responsibility. The use of applicants’ credit history in hiring processes is regulated by state laws.
When employers examine your credit file, they will get an accurate picture of your financial history. The information they will see includes open lines of credit, account balances, late or missed payments, defaults on loans or credit cards, outstanding debts, accounts in collection, and other financial details.
Do yourself a favor and learn about your credit history before you undergo a background check. It’s important to be aware of your credit scores and other information in your credit report so you can address any issues. For example, if you find any mistakes or inaccurate information, you can dispute the errors and request removal before undergoing a background check.
The first step is to request a copy of your credit report to take a look at the information contained within. You can obtain a free copy from each of the three major credit bureaus at annualcreditreport.com, a website authorized by the federal government. You can also gain access to your credit scores and reports through your bank or credit card provider, or through third-party services such as Credit Karma.
Driving records
If you apply for a position that involves driving or the use of a company car, your driving records may also be scrutinized. Your record reveals details such as when and where your driver’s license was issued, your license classification, accidents, traffic violations, DUI or DWI convictions, and penalties for those violations.
Professional licenses and certifications
The verification of any licenses and certifications you claim to have is also a common area for employers to look into. Employers will want to ensure the authenticity of the licenses and certifications and make sure they are still valid. Background check services will typically contact the issuer to confirm details such as the issue date of the certification, when it expires, and if you’re in good standing.
Social media
Increasingly common, background checks may include social media screening on major platforms. Employers should seek job-relevant, legally permissible information, avoiding privacy violations. However, employers might also look at publicly available social media accounts, such as Facebook and Instagram. It’s a smart move to ensure your online presence aligns with your professional image. You may also want to consider making your accounts private if needed.
Why does it matter what a background check shows?
Even if you’re qualified for a job, the discovery of negative information in your background check could impact your chances of obtaining the position. Being aware of what the background check will unveil and how far back it goes empowers you to manage potential issues. Here are a few ways to improve your chances of securing the job you want:
- Review and adjust your social media profiles to present a professional image.
- Maintain a clean credit history and driving record to enhance your overall standing.
- Dispute inaccuracies in your credit report to rectify any potential errors (and improve your credit score in the process).
- If you have a criminal record, explore the possibility of expungement if eligible.
- Consider running a self-background check for a preview of what potential employers might discover.
What can you expect from an employment background check?
In most states, employers can conduct background checks at any point during the hiring process, even before making a formal job offer. However, it most often occurs after extending a conditional offer of employment. Federal law mandates specific actions before initiating a background check. Employers must take the following steps:
- Notify you in writing about the intention to conduct a background check
- Provide a notice explaining how the information from the background check will be used
- Obtain your written consent to perform the background check and run a credit check
The screening process — including the collection of personal details such as your full name, date of birth, and Social Security number — usually takes between a few days to several weeks. The duration is normally influenced by the comprehensiveness of the background check.
If adverse information discovered in the background check results in a decision not to hire you, the company is required to provide the following:
- A copy of the background report
- A copy of “A Summary of Your Rights Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act” to inform you of your rights
With a copy of the report, you have the opportunity to explain or dispute negative information found by the company. Keep in mind that background checks aren’t infallible; inaccuracies may occur. If you discover errors, you have the right to dispute them with the background check service.
As part of the pre-employment process, you may also be asked to complete a drug screening. While most employers use urine tests, other sample types such as hair, blood, or saliva may be requested. The substances screened for and the detection timelines vary among different drug tests.
FAQ
What does an employment background check typically include?
The scope of background checks varies by employer and the position in question. However, some areas covered in an employment background check include criminal records, employment and education history, credit history, driving records, professional licenses, and social media presence.
Can employers see your work history?
It’s customary for employers to verify dates, titles, and responsibilities with previous employers as part of the background check process. This is just one of many reasons to be transparent about your employment history if you hope to secure a new position.
What if something negative shows up on my background check?
Candidates have the right to receive a copy of the report, dispute inaccuracies, and provide explanations for any negative findings.
How far back do background checks go?
Criminal and credit history typically cover seven to ten years, but regulations vary by state. Employment and educational history may extend indefinitely. Both employers and third-party services are required to follow federal and state laws when conducting background checks.
Key Takeaways
- Be aware of what a background check includes to help manage your job prospects.
- Understand the significance of social media scrutiny and maintain a professional online presence.
- Review and address potential issues in your credit history, driving record, and criminal background.
- Exercise your right to dispute inaccuracies and provide explanations for adverse findings.
- Stay informed about state regulations influencing the depth and duration of background checks.
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