Background Check: 8 Serious Red Flags Every Employee Should Avoid
As the world tilts further towards a completely digital environment, businesses are beginning to integrate digital based processes into their working model. More companies have adopted Work From Home policies for employees and have extended this model to hiring new staff. For this reason, carrying out proper background checks have become increasingly important. Since conducting interviews and hiring can be done virtually, stricter guidelines are being used for background checks.
What is the purpose of employment verification?
To establish that you have the professional background and relevant work experience necessary for the position, employers may verify your employment history as part of the employee background check.
When an applicant claims to have years of experience when in fact they don't, or when a candidate misrepresents their former titles, achievements, or responsibilities, employers get highly concerned about the candidate's integrity. For companies, irregularities of this kind suggest that an applicant is being purposefully dishonest.
How can I pass a background check?
Depending on the job description and company policy, background checks are usually done after the candidate has been given an employment offer. However, it is advisable to ensure you provide accurate details even as you send in your application letter to the employer. If you aren’t sure what causes a red flag on a back check, here’s a list of the major reasons why you could fail a background check.
Inconsistent Academic Profile
It's not uncommon for people who are having difficulty finding work to feel the need to embellish their résumé. If a job applicant's claim of higher education does not match reality, an education verification background check might reveal this. A disparity in education or certification may need to be discussed if the candidate did not attend a certain college or did not acquire a degree or certificate as stated.
Incorrect Work History
It's not always the case that a former employer is prohibited from disclosing personal information about you. In states where your employer is located, rules governing what may and can't be disclosed may differ. Whatever state you're a resident of, you may still contact past employers and get copies of your employment records. It's a great approach to avoid any unpleasant inquiries that may come up.
Irregular Driving Record
Be prepared to explain any abnormalities if your prospective employer asks to see your driving license. They are less likely to catch you off guard if you are prepared to anticipate their queries. Minor infractions on your driving record might be due to a totally valid reason. It's important to be able to explain why it's there in the first place
Drug Tests
Drug abuse by employees can be a big liability.. Someone who fails a pre-employment drug test and is found to have used an illegal substance may be excluded from the pool of candidates.
And if you're taking prescription drugs that are legal in certain places but not in others, make sure you can explain them. Honesty increases your chances of coming out of the issue on the other side.
Employee research
While preparing your application letter for the job, it is recommended that job candidates do extensive research on the company in order to have an idea of the company structure. Because while certain companies might overlook certain lapses in your background information, some others might disqualify you for mistakes as little as date inconsistency.
Be 100% Transparent
There's nothing wrong with discussing a negative aspect of your past with your prospective employer rather than waiting for them to learn about it. Any mitigating circumstances may be explained by you, if you are the one to bring it to their attention. This might make all the difference in how people see you.
Conclusion
Lastly, prior to applying for a job, it's always a good idea to find out about any background checks that a prospective employer could do. Inquire with the human resources department about what documents you need to prepare and what information you need to give for the screening process before applying.