As per a survey conducted by HR.com, around 94% of employers conduct some type of background checks on potential candidates before hiring them for any role. If you are actively applying for jobs, being prepared for background checks is a good idea as it will increase the chances of you being hired. If you are unsure of what is included in a background check and why it is crucial, take a look below!
What Are Background Checks?
A background check, simply speaking, is an investigation performed by employers to check certain records of a prospective employee. As per a report, around 78% of job applicants tend to lie in their applications. The main motive behind a background check is to verify whether the candidate has stated everything honestly in their resume or not.
The criteria for background checks may vary depending on the job role. But generally, it may consist of checking your employment history, criminal records, academic records, reference checks, medical records, and so on. In addition, some employers may also check your credit history and social media profiles.
Usually, employers need your written consent before conducting any checks on your private information. So, make sure to clarify the type of information they are collecting and how they intend to use it. But, employers don’t need your permission to check any publicly available information.
How To Prepare For A Background Check?
Below are a few steps that will help you be prepared in advance for background checks.
Keep All Documents In Order
Ensure you keep physical or digitized copies of all your academic and employment records with you before filling up any job applications. These may include all your degrees and certificates, payslips, etc. Doing so will ensure that you enter all the required information accurately.
Run A Background Check On Yourself
The best way to understand what prospective employers will find while checking your background is to do one yourself. Get copies of all your public and private records and ensure that it’s free from any errors.
Review All Your Social Media Profiles
Prospective employers can check your social media profiles without notifying you in advance. In fact, a survey conducted by CareerBuilder found that around 70% of employers screen candidates through their social media accounts. Therefore, it’s best to review all your accounts before starting the job application process. You can change your privacy settings to restrict them from accessing all but the basic information provided on your profiles. An employer is more likely to have a positive impression of you if your profile looks professional.
Contact Your References In Advance
Employers may ask for a reference list to verify your performance and work ethics with your previous company. Make sure you choose your references in advance and notify them to be prepared for any call or email from your prospective employer. Also, much of your chance of getting the job depends on the response of your references, so make sure you choose people who are familiar with your skills and achievements.
Always Be Honest
Last but not least, be honest about your background. Even if there is any negative record, you should tell the employers upfront instead of knowing it while conducting the background check. You will come across as trustworthy and honest by being truthful, increasing your chances of being hired.
Summing Up
A background check is almost as important as an interview when securing a job. And by following the tips mentioned above, you can stay better prepared for the checks done by the employer.
About the Author
Simon Chou is the Vice President of Operations and Growth at BCjobs.ca. Over the course of his career, he carved a niche in brand development, marketing strategy, and online presence for startups. Prior to joining BCJobs.ca, Simon was an advisor for several global blockchain projects including Litecoin, NEM, and Ripple. In the past, he also worked with Fortune 500 companies in the healthcare space through SM Digital—a global marketing agency.
