Today, many employers conduct some type of background screenings for employment. These checks make sure that prospective employees provide accurate and truthful information. The check may be as simple as contacting previous employers and references to confirm previous employment and ask a few questions. Another option is to conduct a complete background check. Here, the information they pull may be as extensive as checking for a criminal record and credit history. 

According to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), an employer must first obtain your permission before they’re allowed to look into your background. This isn’t the best time for you to get ready for them to do so, though. If you’re concerned about passing this check, you should start preparing as soon as you see the background check mentioned in either the job posting or the application.

Conduct Your Own Background Screenings

If you don’t like surprises, you should look into your own background before your potential employer has the opportunity to do so. This will allow you to be aware of anything they may find there. Armed with this information, you’ll be able to share it with your employer in advance so that they aren’t surprised when they find it.

Court and Criminal Records

If you know you have a criminal record, check to make sure the information out there is accurate above all else. If you’ve had charges expunged or reduced, follow up on that, too. You should do the same thing with your civil court records. 

Credit Report

Unfortunately, if employers find something unsatisfactory on your credit report, it disqualifies you from certain jobs. By knowing this information ahead of time, you can discuss it with your employer and defend yourself, if necessary. Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion are all required to provide you with a free report, so you can cross-reference everything.

Driving Record

If you’re going to be driving or traveling for your job, don’t overlook this part of your background screening. It’s a good idea to know what the company may find since this is something they’ll look at before allowing you to get behind the wheel.

Your Online Presence

Take a moment to search for your name on Google and see what comes up. You want to make sure there isn’t something unsavory in your digital history. Look through blog posts, social media websites, and anywhere else that your name is listed to see what people are saying about you.

Always Be Honest

If you conduct your own background check, you’ll be better equipped to pass a background check for employment. Employers won’t be surprised by what they find if you tell them first. Without that preparation, employers might reject you, regardless of how much skill. Honesty over all else will set you up for success.

To see what potential employers will see when they conduct a background check on you, take a minute to run your name through the system at Soteria Screening National Crime Search.