Published Date: 30 August, 2017
Last updated on: 28 April, 2023
What is a background check? It is an investigation conducted by the employer to verify details about an applicant’s work history, education, criminal record, and other relevant information. Background checks have become essential for employers to have confidence in the people they hire. Furthermore, it helps reduce the potential risks caused by hiring the wrong candidate such as reputational damage and financial expenses.
Have you been asked to do a background check for a new job? This blog will answer the two questions you are probably wondering:
- What do employers look for in a background check?
- How can you prepare for a background check?
Why might you be asked for a background check?
Background checks help employers make informed hiring decisions and protect their integrity. Although you may be truthful in your application, research by CareerBuilders found that 33% of candidates lied about their qualifications. Document forgery and discrepancies can be hard to detect, and 75% of hiring managers have admitted to hiring the wrong person.
Employers want to identify fake candidates. For instance, one wrong hire can cause a company to lose money, increase staff turnover and lower productivity. Moreover, the effects can be even more damaging for high-risk industries such as healthcare, finance and engineering. Making a bad hire in these industries can risk the safety of communities and ruin a company’s reputation.
What do employers look for in a background check?
Background checks typically cover the information on resumes, including past employment, education certifications, and professional licenses. Some employers may do a deeper screening and look at the social media, criminal history and drug use of candidates.
Employment background check companies will use various sources to verify information about a candidate. The type of checks will vary depending on the industry, resources and size of the company.
Find out more about what background checks look at:
1. Academic credentials
A qualification check covers school and higher education degrees related to the role you are applying for, plus any relevant professional training courses and certifications.
2. Employment history
A background check will review all the companies you have worked for. The information they look at will include job titles, responsibilities, employment dates, salaries and other relevant information.
3. Employee references
You may also know references as a Certificate of Good Standing. You can request references from your former manager or HR department. They may also share an account of your performance at the company.
4. Employment status
If you are applying for an overseas job, you will most likely be required to prove that you are legally permitted to work in that country. These documents may involve work permits, residency certificates, passports or other related papers.
5. Drug and alcohol tests
Some employers may require lab tests to prove that candidates are not reliant on drugs or alcohol. Although not as common as the other checks, this may be a requirement for some industries or job roles.
6. Criminal records
Laws on checking criminal history vary depending on the country you work in and the type of job you are applying for. However, you must consent to any background checks before they start.
How can you prepare for a background check?
Check your records
Before you have a background check, double-check the information you provided the employer is accurate. Beyond your educational and employment records, you can request access to your driving history, credit score and criminal record. By taking these steps, you will learn more about what employers can see and can even correct any mistakes. If you want to be thorough, consider running a complete background check on yourself before starting your job search. Just keep in mind that there may be a fee for a more comprehensive report.
Be honest
Your credentials are crucial factors in the application process and what qualifies you for the role. These areas are thoroughly examined during a background check and will find any discrepancies. The number of checks done will vary depending on the industry. The screening process is stricter for high-risk industries, like healthcare, where lives are at stake.
Review your social media
Social media may not be an official part of your background check; however, some companies may check your social media history. It is always a good idea to be mindful of what you post online, especially in areas open to the public. If you are applying for a new job, review your channels and remove anything that may affect your chances of securing the job. You can also type your name into Google and see what comes up.
Understand your rights
Finally, and most importantly, know your rights. Privacy laws can be hard to understand, as they differ depending on the country. What is ok in one place might be a breach in another. Find out what your consent rights are for background checks. Your employer will likely ask you to sign a consent form or Letter of Authorisation before running a background check.
Conclusion
Now you know what is included in a background check and how to prepare. As you can see, background checks have become increasingly common. Although they can seem intimidating, they are in place to protect employers, employees, and customers alike.
There is no better way to start your relationship with a professional employer on the right foot than to be honest. Having all the correct information in front of potential employers can get you that job you want. Make a good impression and present yourself and your credentials truthfully.
Have you been asked to complete a Primary Source Verification (PSV)?
Verifying your credentials is an excellent way to ensure that the information presented in your background check is accurate. The DataFlow Group is a pioneering global provider of Primary Source Verification (PSV) and background screening. Verifying your credentials with DataFlow will give your future employer confidence that you are qualified for the role you are applying for.
