HR Files is a segment allowing potential candidates to ask questions answered directly by our CEO, Darcy Swift. This month we discuss how to interpret the results of an employment background check.
QUESTION: What is included in an employment background check? Will I be able to see the results? I haven’t done anything illegal in my adult life but I did get into some trouble as a teenager. I‘m up for a new job and they said they want to give me an offer pending a positive background check. Should I be nervous that my past as a teen will affect my future?
ANSWER: A background check consist of several things depending on the person or company requesting the report. They can even include your driving record. Juvenile records are not made public in most states. Even if you are in a state that one can pull a juvenile record, most employers will take into consideration the type of offense, how long ago it was and what has happened since. If you have not had any legal issues as an adult, you should have no reason to be nervous.
An employment background check can include several components, depending on the employer and the role you’re applying for. Common elements may include:
- Criminal history checks
- Employment and education verification
- Identity verification
- Driving records (for positions involving company vehicles or driving responsibilities)
Do Juvenile Records Show Up on Background Checks?
In most states, juvenile records are not public and typically do not appear on standard background checks. Even in states where certain juvenile records may be accessible, employers usually consider:
- The type of offense
- How long ago it occurred
- Your behavior and record since then
If you’ve had no legal issues as an adult, there is generally no reason to be nervous about a routine employment background check.
Can You See Your Background Check Results?
Yes. The results of your background check are sent directly to the company requesting the report. However, you will receive a notice informing you that the background check was completed, along with instructions on how to request a copy of the report for your own records.
Why Transparency Matters in the Hiring Process
One of the most important steps you can take is to be transparent with the hiring manager ahead of time. If you believe something may appear on your background check, it’s better to address it proactively rather than let it come as a surprise.
Being upfront:
- Builds trust with the employer
- Opens the door for explanation and context
- Removes the “shock factor” if something unexpected appears
Can You Run a Background Check on Yourself?
If you’re feeling uncertain, a smart option is to run a background check on yourself before the employer does. This allows you to see exactly what may come up and prepare accordingly.
We recommend OnTime Background Checks, a trusted provider offering fast, accurate, and discreet background checks, along with social media monitoring options to fit any budget.
If you have a question you want answered, please CONTACT US HERE. We will feature one frequently asked question a month.
HR Files is a segment allowing potential candidates to ask questions answered directly by our CEO, Darcy Swift. This month we discuss how to interpret the results of an employment background check.
QUESTION: What is included in an employment background check? Will I be able to see the results? I haven’t done anything illegal in my adult life but I did get into some trouble as a teenager. I‘m up for a new job and they said they want to give me an offer pending a positive background check. Should I be nervous that my past as a teen will affect my future?
ANSWER: A background check consist of several things depending on the person or company requesting the report. They can even include your driving record. Juvenile records are not made public in most states. Even if you are in a state that one can pull a juvenile record, most employers will take into consideration the type of offense, how long ago it was and what has happened since. If you have not had any legal issues as an adult, you should have no reason to be nervous.
An employment background check can include several components, depending on the employer and the role you’re applying for. Common elements may include:
- Criminal history checks
- Employment and education verification
- Identity verification
- Driving records (for positions involving company vehicles or driving responsibilities)
Do Juvenile Records Show Up on Background Checks?
In most states, juvenile records are not public and typically do not appear on standard background checks. Even in states where certain juvenile records may be accessible, employers usually consider:
- The type of offense
- How long ago it occurred
- Your behavior and record since then
If you’ve had no legal issues as an adult, there is generally no reason to be nervous about a routine employment background check.
Can You See Your Background Check Results?
Yes. The results of your background check are sent directly to the company requesting the report. However, you will receive a notice informing you that the background check was completed, along with instructions on how to request a copy of the report for your own records.
Why Transparency Matters in the Hiring Process
One of the most important steps you can take is to be transparent with the hiring manager ahead of time. If you believe something may appear on your background check, it’s better to address it proactively rather than let it come as a surprise.
Being upfront:
- Builds trust with the employer
- Opens the door for explanation and context
- Removes the “shock factor” if something unexpected appears
Can You Run a Background Check on Yourself?
If you’re feeling uncertain, a smart option is to run a background check on yourself before the employer does. This allows you to see exactly what may come up and prepare accordingly.
We recommend OnTime Background Checks, a trusted provider offering fast, accurate, and discreet background checks, along with social media monitoring options to fit any budget.
If you have a question you want answered, please CONTACT US HERE. We will feature one frequently asked question a month.
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