Just a couple of decades ago, applying for a job

Just a couple of decades ago, applying for a job was fairly straightforward. You submitted your resume, went for one or more interviews, had two or three references checked and that was that. Today, a background check for employment is becoming standard, in addition to all the rest. Here, we provide an overview of what this background check entails and what it means to you and your chances of employment.

By law, a prospective employer must tell you that the company requires a background check for employment with their firm and obtain your permission before moving forward. So what types of information can they obtain?

The laws pertaining to employers conducting such background checks vary from state to state. Before beginning your job search, it's wise to check out the laws in your state. However, if you are applying for a job with a Federal agency, such as the FBI or the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal government has far more latitude than a private company in accessing information about you.

A background check most commonly includes a search for criminal records and a credit check. In fact, your prospective employer may search out any information that is on public record. This is important to understand, because if you do give your permission and have a criminal record or poor credit, you may be assured that you won't land that job. Most background checks only cover the past seven years, for both criminal and credit records, although some may go back as far as sixteen years on criminal matters.

For example, if you have been arrested, even on false charges, this information may show up on a background check for employment. This is why you'll want to know the laws of your state, as well as keeping in mind the extra latitude government agencies have in inspecting your background.

Employment agencies, offering permanent, temporary and contract employment may also screen you with a background check, but again, must obtain your permission. You always have the right to decline.

Some employers may stipulate that a background check for employment with their firm is required, but many don't follow through, due to the cost. This is particularly true with small companies. However, if you're applying with a large corporation, or for a high level position, or would be dealing with company information which requires a security clearance, it's almost certain they will follow through.

If you don't have a recent copy of your credit report, get one. With identity theft being so common, you'll want to have any mistakes corrected.

This information should not be construed as a 'scare' message, but instead to familiarize yourself on the ins and outs of what a background check for employment entails. Forewarned is forearmed.

When you go to an interview, or submit your resume to an employment agency, you won't be frightened or feel put on the spot, thinking, What's a background check for employment?