When employers perform background checks they want to be confident that they are hiring a reliable and trustworthy individual. Background checks typically include verifying employment history, educational qualifications, criminal records, and sometimes personal references.
Employers may also research credit history and check public records to uncover any bankruptcies, tax liens, lawsuits and judgments. Depending on the industry and complexity of the job they may even research social media as well.
Overall, employers want to find individuals who will make a positive contribution to their team and work environment. A thorough background check can help employers identify the right people for the job, protect their company from potential risk, and ensure the safety of the workplace.
What kind of things show up on a background check?
A background check is conducted to reveal any prior criminal history and potential areas of risk for an individual or business. They often involve a review of an individual’s or company’s past, including criminal records, credit history, driving records, school attendance, educational background, and business affiliations.
Specific information that will show up in a background check can vary greatly depending on the type of request, but typically includes verification of identity, criminal history, driving records, credit history, employment and/or education history, drug testing, reference checks, civil records, etc.
Generally speaking, most employers will use background checks when hiring new employees, vetting potential clients, renting apartments, and other related activities. They can also be used for tenant screening, licensing, bond issuance, and other similar purposes.
What type of background check do most employers use?
Most employers use a basic background check that covers a variety of areas including a criminal record check, address history, and employment history. When these three areas are reviewed, employers are able to verify the information that job applicants have provided on resumes and job applications.
In addition, employers may choose to obtain motor vehicle records, credit checks, educational verification (degrees, certifications, etc. ), and reference checks. Depending on the job, employers may also check for professional licensing or request additional information for security clearances.
Conducting more comprehensive background checks also allows employers to verify key information in order to protect both the employer and potential employee, such as “background screening for employment and criminal records, drug tests, and social security number verifications”.
In addition, employers may also choose to focus on more specific background checks depending on the role they’re looking to fill. This can include checking the candidate’s work performance (reference and employment verifications), or checking qualifications and certifications.
Ultimately, employers will decide what type of background check they want to use, but the basic background check is often the starting point. This type of examination will cover key areas that employers need to know in order to make an informed hiring decision.
Should I be nervous about a background check?
It is natural to feel a bit apprehensive when you know that a potential employer is going to be doing a background check on you. However, it is important to remember that it is standard practice for employers to do background checks on potential employees, so anxiety is not necessary.
The best way to put your mind at ease is to be prepared and to make sure that you are honest and forthcoming when answering questions.
When preparing for a background check, you should examine your background carefully and make sure that everything checks out correctly. You should obtain your criminal record and credit report so that you can review them for accuracy.
It is also important to be able to document any gaps in your employment history and to provide references from previous employers who can vouch for your character and professional experience.
A background check is a tool for employers to get to know your personal and professional history a bit better. Instead of being nervous about it, try to remember that it can also be an opportunity to present your best self to the employer and demonstrate why you would be a great candidate for the job.
Do companies tell you if you passed a background check?
It depends on the company’s policy. Generally, companies do not typically provide information about the outcome of a background check unless the applicant specifically requests it. Some employers may choose to inform successful applicants that they have passed the background check, however this is not always the case.
Companies typically choose to keep the results of background checks confidential due to privacy concerns. If an applicant has any questions about their background check results, they should contact the employer directly.
How long does it take for a background check to come back for a job?
It can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks for a background check to come back for a job, depending on several factors. The type of background check and how much information is being checked are two main factors that can influence the timeframe.
For example, a basic criminal background check may be able to be processed within a few days, while a credit check or more comprehensive background check including multiple levels of verification could take several weeks.
Additionally, factors like backlogs at the state or local level can lead to delays. If timely information is critical, you may be able to expedite the process for an additional fee, but this is not guaranteed and depends on the company performing the background check.
Are there different types of background checks?
Yes, there are different types of background checks. The specific type of background check that an employer uses depends on the type of job being filled and the information that a company wants to gather on an individual.
Common background checks include criminal record checks, credit checks, employment verification, drug testing, education and qualifications verification, reference checking, and specialized skills checks.
Employers may opt to conduct a basic background check which might cover criminal records, court records, and education records. For some positions, employers may opt to do a more detailed background check which may include a credit, driving, or reference check.
Government agencies may need to do a comprehensive background check which can include a civil records search and fingerprint check.
In addition to the different types of background checks employers may conduct, they must comply with both federal and state laws and regulations that apply to background checks. It is important to be aware of the laws and regulations in your state or country to ensure compliant background checks are conducted.
