Hiring managers and recruiters are focusing more and more on effective background checks, including criminal history checks and reference checks. Without conducting a background check, an employer only has access to the information provided by the applicant on which to base their hiring decision. Such details might not be complete or accurate. Background checks let employers get a complete picture of a candidate, which can help in the following ways:
- Prevent theft and other criminal activity
- Preserve company reputation and brand image
- Hire the most qualified people and improve productivity
- Avoid workplace harassment and safety issues
What information can background screening offer an employer?
With some notable exceptions, a background check might reveal the following details:
- Education history
- Employment history
- Criminal history
- Driving records
- Credit reports
Not every position requires all of this information. For example, the employee has to operate a vehicle at the position for the employer to request a driving record. There are also different state and federal laws that determine when you can assess someone’s criminal or financial history.
The importance of background checks is not limited to the above. What can you do to pass a pre-employment screening? Here are the top things you can do to make sure you’re prepared for one.
Know what they’re looking or not looking for
Find out what a prospective employer might be seeking in advance. Get in touch with the HR department and ask them what information you need to provide for the background check or which documents you need to prepare. Employers are not looking for damaging information, but it’s still good to know ahead of time.
Be prepared to explain anomalies in your driving record
An employer is less likely to catch you off guard if you can anticipate any questions they might ask. Minor issues usually have a perfectly valid explanation.
Be informed about medication laws
If you’re applying for a job in healthcare, you will probably be asked to take a drug test. Be informed about the substances that are banned in the state where you’re applying. If you’re taking legitimate prescription drugs that aren’t legal everywhere, make sure you can explain. Being honest and direct makes you far more likely to succeed.
Check your credit report
Employers tend to look at financial history as something that can tell of a candidate’s character. Get a free copy of your credit report and check it carefully. Get in touch with associated parties if something on the report doesn’t seem right. You have every right to dispute items on your report, but it can take a while, so you must check your credit regularly. Employers aren’t allowed to check your credit score, but credit reports are fair game.
Ask for employment record copies from previous employers
Laws on disclosure by former employers vary between states, but you can ask for copies of your employment records no matter which state you work in. This way, you can avoid any potentially awkward interview questions associated with employment history or reference checks.
Know local employment laws
Many people no longer need to live close to where they work because a lot of roles are home-based. One downside of this is ignorance as to the laws that your potential employer is adhering to. Do research on the local laws to avoid nasty surprises.
Do a self-check
Investing in a personal background check is worth it. You only need to do it once, and it’s not hard. You only provide basic personal details like your name and Social Security number for the screening service to match you with your records. If you know what will show up on your background check report ahead of time, you can address any potential issues, like false information. Finding and addressing errors before a potential employer sees them can keep you from missing out on a great job.
If your report has negative information which is not false, it can help to discuss it with your potential employer. Be prepared to do that rather than going with the flow. You can explain any mitigating circumstances which could change their perception of you for the better.
Generally, it’s far easier for someone to hire you if you’re prepared with the most suitable information for their background checks and you’re ready to explain any issues in your background.