If you are told that prior to being hired or to being scheduled
for an interview that a background check might be run on you, what does that
mean? Should you be worried? What are they going to look at?
These are all valid questions that you should wonder about and that you should
find out about!
Some of the things an employer might consider in a background
check include:
- Identity
- Work history
- Financial background
- Criminal status
The employer is finding out how big of a risk you might be to
them. If you are prepared and know what your background check reveals
this will prevent you from finding out about things that might not be so
pleasing.
What’s the Difference Between a Reference Check and a Background
Check?
References are something potential employees are expected to
provide. They are usually people like employers and co-workers and
sometimes personal references. You can let the people on your reference list
know that they may be contacted and you can prepare them for the kind of
questions they may ask. You can also ask them what kind of answers they
may give.
A background check is a little bit different in that it confirms
facts that you have given the employer on your resume and cover letter and
possibly in your interview. They may look into your education and
employment history, as well as verify your identity. Some of the other
things they may check into include your driving record, your credit status,
civil litigation, and your criminal record.
Be Prepared
You can be prepared to a certain extent by finding out what is on
the record about you. Check these things:
Identity: You should have two pieces of photo ID. This can
include a student card, drivers license, passport, or a health card if your
province puts a picture on it. You should have your social insurance number
ready if you are asked to sign an agreement.
Employment History: Make sure that you worked where you have said you worked and
that the name you were using at the time matches the name you currently
use. You can contact previous places of employment to make sure that the
information they have is accurate and if you have changed your name, you can
request that they put your new name on your file.
Education: Verify
the information that is in the records of the schools that you attended and get
transcripts of marks directly from the school; make copies of your transcript
in case your employer requests a copy for your file.
Credit status: Make sure you are aware of your credit status. Contact
TransUnion Canada and Equifax and have them send you copies of your credit
reports. These are the two major credit bureaus in Canada. Make
sure everything is correct and have them make adjustments if they are not.
