Many job seekers fret about what their potential employers may discover with a background check.  Most people have nothing to worry about.  Usually, employers don’t care about a few issues that came up many years ago.  They care about your recent work accomplishments and how it is to their advantage to hire you.  As long as you’re honest and focus on the positives you’ll be fine.  But fudging even the smallest detail may cost you a job if discovered.  Here are some common areas background checks explore…

1.  Criminal History- Juvenile records are sealed but anything in the public record is available.  Some    states only provide information for a recent time period so look into your state’s law if concerned.

2. Education Check-  A problem area for many people.  In recent years everyone from executives, teachers, and politicians have been caught exaggerating their educational qualifications.  Be honest about your education.  If you are feeling like you may not have enough education focus on the valuable experience you have or consider taking night classes to earn a degree or refresh your skills.

3.  Job History Verification-  This is the big one that scares most people.  Potential employers will verify your work history.  A quick call to HR will reveal if you actually worked when and where you said you did.  Most former employers will do no more than confirm your job title and dates of employment.  To reveal more would put them in a position to be sued, though I have heard of some past employers saying less than desirable things about former employees.  If you’re concerned about this, have a friend call your previous employer and have them to some poking around to see what your past employer may say.

4. Credit Report- Some employers are looking for financial stability in their employees.  Any bankruptcies more than seven years old will not be reported.  Check your credit report for any errors.

5.  Civil Claims and Judgments- Ever sued or been sued before?  This may come up.

6. Driving Records- This will definitely be looked into if you’re applying for a job with significant drive time.

7. Reference Check- If you are asked to provide references on a job application, chances are the employer will call the numbers provided.  Questions tend to be work related.