The thought of a current or future employer running a background check on you is incredibly daunting, even if like me, you've never even had a speeding ticket. Screening applicants is becoming increasingly common, along with the review of social networking sites like facebook and Twitter. I was under the misconception that a background check revealed your past residences and any criminal history, but if you read the small print, you're more than likely granting an employer the right to look at your credit reports, work history, and in some instances, medical records. Your credit history and medical records can't actually hurt your chances of employment though, right? Wrong - some employers will view poor credit as a reflection of irresponsible behavior (especially if the job involves access to the companies finances) and serious medical problems may lead an employer to not hire a candidate as it could increase their health insurance costs. It seems invasive and excessive, but if you thoroughly know your background there will be no surprises and you can be prepared to talk honestly about your history.
Heather Huhman recommends "running a background check on yourself" to make sure your history is correct and that there aren't errors in your past employment. She also stresses the importance of being honest on your resume, as a background check will reveal untruthful information. While her article details background checks in the realm of employment, it's not unheard of for graduate (and select undergraduate) schools to screen their candidates. Do they factor background checks into their final decisions? Apparently only if there is history of a violent crime that could pose a threat to the safety of other students - it varies from school to school.
They say if you don't know your past, you don't know your future - in this case, that seems incredibly true! Have you had a background check from an employer or school? Share your experience.
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