Whenever you apply for a new position, it is highly likely that your prospective employer will perform a background check. This is an integral part of the recruitment process as it minimizes the risk of hiring an untrustworthy employee.

But what exactly goes into a background check? Well, it largely depends on what industry you are working in. Certain businesses will have far more stringent requirements than others. Any position where you are responsible for another human being will require stronger background screenings, for example.

The time it takes for these background checks to bring results also varies. Sometimes, you might not hear your results within the expected timeframe.

Before you panic and ask, ‘How long does a delayed background check take,’ we should cover what usually takes place during these checks. This will give you a better idea of what the process involves and what information employers think is important.

Here are some of the main things that employers will look for when performing background screenings.

Previous Employment and Education Verification

This is a big one for many employers, and for obvious reasons. Employers want to make sure a candidate is who they say they are on the application. Recruiters will have plenty of stories where potential employees have lied about where they used to work or what qualifications they possess.

Through background screening, an employer can verify where you used to work by contacting previous employers. They will do the same for educational institutions you claim to have worked at. If you are found to be lying about either, you can expect your application to be discarded.

Reference Confirmation

Aside from checking in with your previous employers, the employer will also follow up on your references. It isn’t uncommon for applicants to put down references who have no relationship with the candidate at all. Some even fabricate their references entirely.

This is largely done under the assumption that no employer actually checks references from job applications. While it is true that some employers won’t check, many do.

Do not take the risk of being found out. References are a valuable way to discover critical information about candidates, and it is unlikely for a larger business to skip this step.

Criminal Background Check

This is by far one of the most commonly occurring elements of background screening. Businesses need to know the legal standing of their employees. This includes all past convictions and any outstanding cases. It may be the only step a business takes.

The predominant reason for performing criminal background checks is to maintain both customer and colleague safety. Employers do not want any risk of workplace violence and fraudulent behavior.

Credit History Check

Lastly, employers may look to your credit history as part of your background screening. This may seem like irrelevant information. After all, your finances are your business. However, your credit score can offer unique insight into your reliability.

Employers will often look to credit scores to assess how trustworthy you are with money and how consistent your lifestyle is. This is especially true if you are applying for a role that involves managing company funds.

All credit checks completed as part of a screening process must be done with your written consent, however, as it is considered personal information.

Don’t Be Afraid of Background Screenings

Having an employer delve through your past on the hunt for personal details can seem pretty menacing. However, when you realize that it’s far easier for employers not to hire someone than it is to fire them later on, background checks make a lot of sense.

This is simply a tool used by employers to protect their business interests. Instead of worrying about the results, focus on being upfront and honest during your first interview.