Will a Background Check Show Employment History?
Yes, a background check can show your employment history. However, the extent of the information revealed depends on the type of background check conducted and the information provided by your previous employers. Let's delve into the specifics.
What Kind of Employment Information Can a Background Check Reveal?
A comprehensive background check typically includes verification of your employment history. This verification process often involves:
- Confirmation of dates of employment: The check will aim to confirm the start and end dates you provided for each position. Discrepancies can raise red flags.
- Verification of job titles and responsibilities: The background check company will attempt to confirm the accuracy of the job titles and the responsibilities you listed in your application or resume.
- Verification of salary (sometimes): While less common, some background checks might attempt to verify your salary information, though this is often dependent on employer cooperation.
- Reasons for leaving previous jobs (rarely): Generally, background checks don't delve into the reasons for leaving your previous roles unless explicitly requested by the hiring company and the previous employer is willing to share this information. This is often subject to legal constraints and the employer's own policies regarding employee confidentiality.
- Contact information for previous supervisors: Many background checks include contacting your previous supervisors to verify information about your performance and suitability for the position. This is a crucial part of the employment verification process.
What Types of Background Checks Exist?
Several types of background checks exist, each with varying levels of detail concerning employment history:
- Basic background check: This often focuses on verifying your identity and criminal record but may include a limited employment history check.
- Comprehensive background check: This is more extensive and includes a thorough review of your employment history, often involving contact with previous employers.
- Employment verification only: Some employers might only conduct a focused check to verify your employment history with your listed previous employers.
What Factors Affect the Information Revealed?
Several factors can affect the level of detail revealed about your employment history:
- Employer cooperation: The willingness of your former employers to cooperate with the background check company significantly influences the information obtained. Some employers have strict policies regarding information disclosure, while others are more open.
- Age of employment: Information from very old jobs may be more difficult to verify, especially if the company no longer exists or records are incomplete.
- Accuracy of your information: Providing inaccurate information on your resume or application will immediately raise red flags and can hinder the verification process.
How Long Does Employment Information Stay on a Background Check?
Generally, there's no legal limitation on how long employment history stays on a record. However, the further back the employment, the harder it might be to verify. Most background checks focus on recent employment history, typically the last 7-10 years.
Can a Background Check Show Unreported Employment?
No, a standard background check cannot reveal unreported employment. It only verifies the information you've provided. Omitting or falsifying employment information is considered a serious offense and can have significant consequences.
In conclusion, while a background check can and often does show your employment history, the comprehensiveness depends on several factors. Accuracy and honesty in your application materials are crucial for a smooth and successful background check process.
