It’s no secret that employers often conduct background checks on potential employees. In their mind, this is to ensure that the person they are hiring is not only qualified for the position but also has a clean criminal record. If you’re worried about how a past conviction or dark secret might affect your chances of landing a job, read on for some tips on how to pass a company’s background check.
Common deal breakers
One of the most important things to consider when completing a background check is whether or not you have any red flags. These could be anything from unexplained gaps in employment to past missed loan payments. While these issues might not be deal breakers per se, they can be a deterrent to prospective employers.
The good news is that most employers are willing to work with you if you have a clean record and have no past criminal convictions. However, there are still some cases when employers automatically reject you if you fail the background check for any reason. Some employers will give you some leeway to explain any mistakes you might have made, while others will look at these instances on a case-by-case basis. In any case, it’s always best to ask prospective employers for their background checks before making a decision. By doing so, you will be able to see exactly what a background check will look for, and you’ll be able to correct any mistakes.
Steps to take to pass a background check
Before applying for a job, you should review your background record to ensure that there are no inaccuracies. It is also important to get a copy of a document issued by the FTC explaining your rights under the FCRA. Applicants who are honest about their past will have a better chance of passing a background check.
Background checks take a long time to run. Luckily, much of the information they require is freely available in public records. By obtaining a signed release from the applicant, background check providers can obtain this information. While credit history records are not available in the public domain, motor vehicle records can be released to a background check provider.
Signs you’ve failed a background check
There are a few tell-tale signs that you may have failed a background check. One of the most obvious is if the employer asks for a copy of your criminal record. Other signs include being asked to provide a written explanation for any red flags on your record or being told that the employer is no longer interested in hiring you.
If you’re concerned about how a past conviction might affect your chances of landing a job, it’s best to be proactive and contact the prospective employer before the background check is run. By doing so, you will be able to see exactly what the background check will look for, and you can take steps to correct any mistakes.
Common reasons you’ve failed a background check
It is normal for job candidates to fail a company’s background check for a number of reasons. While some of these reasons are more troubling than others, a failed background check does not mean that a candidate is automatically disqualified. Rather, it means that there are red flags that a hiring manager will look out for before hiring someone.
The most common reason a candidate will fail a background check is that they have a criminal history. A criminal record is a red flag that a candidate may commit misconduct in the workplace. Many employers have tighter parameters than others for hiring people with criminal records.
Avoiding discrimination during a background check
If you feel that you have been unfairly discriminated against during a background check, you can file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC is responsible for enforcing anti-discrimination laws in the workplace. When filing a complaint, be sure to include as much information as possible, such as the name of the company that conducted the background check and the date on which the check was conducted.
It is also important to know that there are federal laws in place that protect applicants from being discriminated against based on their criminal history. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has published guidance on how employers can avoid criminal background discrimination.
What to do if you fail a background check
If you fail a background check, the first thing you should do is ask the employer why. Many employers are willing to give applicants a second chance if they can provide an explanation for their past. For example, suppose an applicant has a criminal record. In that case, the employer may be willing to overlook this if the applicant has been rehabilitated and is unlikely to commit misconduct in the workplace.
It is also important to know that there are federal laws in place that protect applicants from being discriminated against based on their criminal history. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has published guidance on how employers can avoid criminal background discrimination.
Those are just some things you should know about passing a company’s background check. In general, just be smart about your past and be upfront about any potential red flags. Disclose any relevant information and be prepared to explain any discrepancies. With a little preparation, you should be able to pass a company’s background check with flying colors.
