Will a Background Check Show Previous Employers?
The short answer is: it depends. While a background check won't reveal everything about your past employment, it can certainly uncover a significant amount of information. The details shown depend on the type of background check conducted, the information provided by your former employers, and the laws governing the process.
Let's delve into the specifics:
What Information Might Be Revealed?
A comprehensive background check often includes an employment verification. This typically involves the following:
- Confirmation of employment: The check will verify that you were employed at the companies you listed, the dates of your employment, and your job title.
- Salary verification: While less common, some background checks may attempt to verify your salary. However, many employers are reluctant to release this information due to privacy concerns.
- Reason for leaving: This is a grey area. Some employers readily share the reason for your departure (e.g., resignation, termination), while others only confirm dates of employment. Negative reasons for leaving (e.g., termination for cause) might be disclosed, but this depends on the employer's policies and legal considerations. Laws like those protecting against defamation often come into play here.
- Job performance: While a background check rarely provides a detailed performance review, extremely negative performance that led to disciplinary action might be mentioned if the former employer chooses to share this information. However, this is unusual and often legally problematic for employers.
What Information is Unlikely to Be Revealed?
- Detailed performance reviews: Employers are generally unwilling to share subjective assessments of your performance, as this information is often considered confidential and potentially exposes them to legal liability.
- Internal conflicts or grievances: Details about disputes or conflicts with colleagues or managers are typically not disclosed.
- Confidential information: Any sensitive company information you had access to will, of course, remain confidential.
Types of Background Checks and Their Scope
The extent to which your previous employers are contacted depends on the type of background check conducted.
- Basic background checks: These typically only verify employment dates and job titles.
- Comprehensive background checks: These go further, potentially including salary verification and reasons for leaving.
- Criminal background checks: These focus on your criminal history and do not directly involve your previous employers, unless a relevant incident occurred at your workplace.
What Can You Do to Prepare?
- Be honest on your application: Inaccuracy on your application can lead to disqualification.
- Maintain good relationships with your former employers: Positive references can significantly benefit your application.
- Understand your rights: Be aware of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and your rights related to background checks. This act governs how your information is collected and used.
H2: What if a Former Employer Provides Negative Information?
If a former employer provides negative information, you generally have the right to know what was said and to dispute its accuracy under the FCRA. The background check company is obligated to investigate your dispute. This is a crucial aspect of the process ensuring fairness.
H2: Can My Past Employment Affect My Chances?
While a spotless employment history is ideal, a single negative mark doesn't necessarily doom your chances. Context matters. A well-explained gap in employment or a previous termination can be addressed successfully during an interview. Honesty, self-awareness, and a positive attitude are key in handling such situations.
In conclusion, while a background check can reveal information about your previous employment, the specifics depend on several factors. Understanding the process and your rights is crucial for navigating this important aspect of the job application process. Remember to maintain a professional record and build strong relationships throughout your career.
