Employment background checks are a critical part of the hiring process. They are designed to help employers make informed decisions and ensure that their prospective employees are suitable for the position they are being considered for. However, what happens when the results of an employment background check come back negative? As a job seeker, this can be a stressful and disheartening experience. In this article, we will explore how to handle a failed employment background check.
Understand Why the Background Check Failed
The first step in handling a failed employment background check is to understand why it failed. There are several reasons why a background check may come back negative, including:
- Criminal history: If the background check reveals a criminal history that is not compatible with the job requirements, this could result in a failed background check.
- Employment history: If there are discrepancies in your employment history or if your references do not provide positive feedback, this could result in a failed background check.
- Education history: If there are discrepancies in your education history or if you do not have the required educational qualifications for the position, this could result in a failed background check.
- Credit history: If the job you are applying for requires a credit check, and your credit history is not satisfactory, this could result in a failed background check.
Knowing the reason why your background check failed will help you determine your next steps.
Be Honest with Your Employer
If your background check failed due to a mistake on your part, it is best to be honest with your employer. Explain the situation and provide any necessary documentation to support your case. If you have a criminal history, be honest about it and explain any mitigating circumstances. It is always better to be upfront and honest than to try and hide something and get caught later.
Dispute Inaccurate Information
If the reason for your failed background check is inaccurate information, it is essential to dispute it. You have the right to dispute any inaccurate information in your background check report. You can contact the background screening company and provide them with the correct information. The screening company will then investigate and correct the error. You can also contact the employer and explain the situation.
Check Your Rights Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act
If the reason for your failed background check is related to your credit history, you have rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). The FCRA requires that employers obtain written consent before conducting a credit check and that they provide you with a copy of the report if the information in the report is used to make an adverse employment decision. You also have the right to dispute any inaccurate information in the report. If you believe that your rights under the FCRA have been violated, you may want to consult with an employment lawyer.
Be Prepared to Provide Additional Information
If your background check reveals something that is not compatible with the job requirements, it is important to be prepared to provide additional information. For example, if you have a criminal history, you may want to explain any mitigating circumstances or provide evidence of rehabilitation. If you do not have the required educational qualifications, you may want to provide evidence of relevant work experience or training. Providing additional information can help to mitigate the negative impact of the failed background check.
Consider Alternative Job Opportunities
If your failed background check is preventing you from obtaining the job you want, it may be time to consider alternative job opportunities. There may be other jobs that do not require a background check or that have less stringent requirements. You can also consider improving your qualifications by obtaining additional education or training.