Background checks have become increasingly more common as
part of the selection process. Typically the background check is not completed
until it is determined that an offer will be extended or an offer has been
extended. What I’m referring to is the credit, criminal background check.
However most companies will also check previous employment and education. These
repots often completed by a third party vendor can uncover not only legal or
criminal issues but also verify information found on resumes such as college
degrees, previous employment and perhaps even professional licenses.
Some companies may just want to verify basic information
while others may be digging deeper. For example if the position includes
dealing with company finances the company may want to check to see if the
candidate has had any bankruptcy which could point to the candidate having a
problem handling their own finances effectively.
If unfavorable information is found on a background check
it does not necessarily mean that the candidate will be eliminated. Employers
may consider the severity of the issue. They may even give the prospective
employee an opportunity to explain the situation. Given the state of the
economy the last few years, bankruptcy and other financial issues are not
uncommon. The attitude about bankruptcy has changed as well. It is not an
immediate knockout these days.
The bottom line however is this…if you know you have an
issue talk to the employer prior to the background check being completed. If
there is an issue, it will be uncovered. It is always easier to explain
something before verse after. Explain the situation in detail. If there is any
documentation be prepared to share that as well.
This applies in particular to bankruptcies. There is no
shame and again, it will be uncovered. It is something that typically can be
explained to an employer’s satisfaction.
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