Employers are doing more thorough research in background checks. There are reasons why.
It used to be that employers merely checked references. Then, many employers started doing credit checks. That was especially true for jobs related to finance.
Employers have expanded their research in background checks for very good reasons.
Reasons for increase
Why the growth in background checks?
Employers run background checks on their applicants to avoid hiring dangerous or unqualified applicants. That’s to protect themselves from individuals who might damage their organization – whether by stealing company assets, instigating workplace violence, or creating public relations problems.
If you’re not an embezzler or have anger-management issues, should you take it personally? No.
Why employers are nervous
Workplace violence is a serious issue, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. It’s so serious an issue, the U.S. Department of Labor provides employers with workpace guidance in numerous papers.
A large accounting firm warns employers about typical resume fraud — employment history, education, certifications and skills. Dannible & McKee, a certified public accountanting and consulting firm in four New York cities and in Tampa, Florida.
Negligent hiring is a problem, but Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) discounts it as a major issue. Nonetheless SHRC reported reported some troubling data: “…1974 through 2022 and found that approximately 435 trial court decisions held employers liable for negligent hiring during that time—an average of nine cases per year.”
However, there was a disturbing negligent hiring case — the murder of an elderly Texas woman, and Charter Communications was hit with a $7 billion+ lawsuit after one of its service technicians killed her.
Workplace drug overdose deaths are a serious issue, according to the National Safety Council.
Job-hunting advice
To make background checks work for you, perform a self-check to identify any potential issues and prepare to address them honestly.
Ensure all information on your application is accurate and detailed, verify your professional references are prepared, and be ready to explain any discrepancies or issues to the employer. This proactive approach allows you to control the narrative and demonstrate integrity, which can turn potential negatives into a show of responsibility.
Perform a self-check: Get a copy of your background check to see what employers will see, including your criminal, credit, and driving records. This helps you prepare for any surprises and allows you to address them proactively.
Verify your information: Before your background check, double-check that all dates, titles, and details on your resume and application are accurate. Inaccurate information can cause the check to fail, even if there are no other issues.
Prepare your references: Contact your references and let them know you’ve applied for the job. This ensures they are ready to provide a positive and accurate endorsement when contacted.
Be honest and transparent: If your self-check reveals an issue, it is best to be upfront with the employer. Explain any discrepancies or past problems and how you have addressed them. Honesty builds trust and can be more compelling than a hidden issue.
Understand your rights: You have legal rights when an employer performs a background check. You will receive a pre-adverse action letter if adverse information is discovered, a copy of your background check, and the opportunity to dispute any errors.
Focus on what’s relevant: Be aware that different jobs require different types of checks. For example, a job that requires driving will likely involve a driving record check, and a financial position may involve a credit check.
Use resources for legal employment: If you are concerned about work authorization, you can visit myE-Verify to pre-check your eligibility to work in the United States.
P.S. When you contact potential employers, do it first thing in the morning before they get busy.
From the Coach’s Corner, here are more career tips:
Seeking a Job? Your Rights in Background Checks — Your rights before and during the background check.
5 Personality Traits for Personal and Professional Success — Five personality traits are important for overcoming stress and achieving goals academically, professionally and in personal relationships.
Spelling Tips to Enhance Your Communication Skills — Good communication skills start with using proper grammar and spelling. They’re central for your career growth. People who communicate stand head and shoulders above their peers.
Looking for a Job? Get a Personal Web Site for an Edge — If you’re looking for a job and competition is tough, human resource professionals say a personal Web site can be a valuable asset. Sixty-eight percent of HR professionals are looking to assess personal qualities that aren’t perceptible from a traditional resume.
Are You Struggling to Write Great Cover Letters? Here’s How — If you want to write a cover letter that will entice employers to consider you, there are several precautions to take. Otherwise, you risk sending a letter that employers won’t want to read. Here are seven strategies.
“A spare tire is something that you don’t check until you have a punctured one.”
-Vikrant Parsai
__________
