Tackling a Background Check Before You Get "Re-Accommodated"

Background checks are still part of the fabric of the all-American hiring process. Many companies still require one before any job offer is valid. A typical background screening includes verification of employment, education, criminal check, and sometimes bankruptcy.

I’m willing to bet that the majority of people reading this have a red mark next to at least one of the following fouls: 

Employment Dates

The most common foul is the fudging of employment dates. In a world where data is king and everything is stored, there is a good chance it will bite you at some point.  Employment dates on a resume should without question be accurate. If you were laid off and have a 4 month gap between jobs, that doesn’t mean you can or should bring the dates of both jobs together to bridge your “gap”. Don’t be afraid or ashamed of the truth.  Stuff happens. Don’t make it worse by lying. During job interviews, address your jumps or gaps, if asked, truthfully and directly. Be careful not to talk for 10 minutes in a 30 minute interview about why your former employer had a “reduction in force”. A simple and direct answer…then move on.

Criminal Background Check

The criminal check seems a bit trickier, but in my reality it’s not.  People do make mistakes…and yes, some are worse than others. But if you are not in jail, you have the right to work. If there is a DUI, for example, in your history, the best way to handle that is to play offense and be up front about it with the hiring authority. It doesn’t need to be one of the first words out of your mouth, but at some point, it’s best to rip the band-aid off and let him/her know the situation in a genuine statement. The last thing you want is for a prospective employer to find out about any arrests from their background check. That will just make you look guiltier and put you in a “lying by omission” category. Chances are they will find out.  Backpedaling and playing defense will not work. Own up to your foul up front in the process and move forward. Even then, some employers will bow out. But many more than you realize will appreciate the honesty and integrity, which can put you back on a level playing field with the other candidates that are being interviewed.

Social Media Accounts

Have you ever googled yourself??? In the age of YouTube and social media, I have a feeling there will be a lot more explaining to do in future interviews. Try to clean up as much as you can out there and be prepared. Honest, upfront, and humble is my advice.

None of us are perfect. But there is no need to run from the past. There is a better way to handle it in an interview process. Otherwise, you may find yourself in an interview getting “re-accommodated”….the United way.