What Shows Up In A Background Check?

Introduction

When it comes to applying for a job, a background check is often an inevitable part of the process. It’s important to know what shows up in a background check, especially if you have a criminal record or other issues that could affect your chances of landing the job. In this article, we’ll explore what typically shows up in a background check and what you can do to prepare.

What is a Background Check?

A background check is a process that employers use to investigate your criminal record, credit history, and other personal information. This information helps employers determine if you’re a good fit for the job and if you can be trusted to represent their company well. While the specific details of a background check can vary depending on the employer and the position being applied for, there are some common components that you can expect.

Criminal Record Check

One of the most important parts of a background check is a criminal record check. This involves looking up your criminal history to see if you have any convictions or pending charges. Even minor offenses, such as traffic violations or misdemeanors, can show up on a criminal record check. If you have a criminal record, it’s important to be upfront about it with your potential employer and explain any extenuating circumstances.

Credit Check

Another component of a background check is a credit check. This involves looking up your credit history to see if you have any outstanding debts, bankruptcies, or other financial issues. While not all employers run credit checks, some do, especially if the job involves handling money or sensitive financial information.

Employment History Check

Employers may also conduct an employment history check to verify your past job titles, duties, and dates of employment. This helps employers confirm that you have the experience and qualifications you claim to have on your resume. If you have gaps in your employment history, it’s important to be honest about why.

Education Verification

Another common part of a background check is education verification. This involves checking to see if you have the educational credentials you claim to have, such as a degree or certification. If you lied about your education on your resume, it’s likely that this will be uncovered during a background check.

Reference Check

Employers may also contact your references to ask about your character, work ethic, and other relevant qualities. It’s important to choose references who can speak positively about you and your abilities, and to let them know that they may be contacted by potential employers.

Driving Record Check

If the job involves driving, employers may also conduct a driving record check to see if you have any traffic violations or accidents on your record. This helps employers determine if you’re a safe and responsible driver.

What Can You Do to Prepare?

If you’re applying for a job and you know that a background check will be conducted, there are several things you can do to prepare. First, be honest about any issues that may show up on your record, such as a criminal conviction or bankruptcy. Explain the circumstances and what you’ve done to address the issue. Second, make sure that the information on your resume and job application is accurate and up-to-date. Double-check your employment history, education, and references to ensure that everything is correct. Third, choose your references carefully. Make sure that your references can speak positively about you and your abilities, and let them know that they may be contacted by potential employers. Finally, be prepared to discuss any issues that come up during the background check. If you have a criminal record, for example, be prepared to explain what happened and how you’ve changed since then.

Conclusion

A background check is a standard part of the job application process, and it’s important to know what shows up in a background check. By understanding what employers are looking for and taking steps to prepare, you can increase your chances of landing the job you want. Remember to be honest about any issues that may come up, choose your references carefully, and be prepared to discuss any issues that arise during the background check.