How Do I Prepare for a Background Check?

• If your employer is planning to implement background checks you probably have a lot of questions. Even if there is nothing bad lurking in your past you may be worried that an error or misunderstanding could cost you the job you need. Fortunately there are some steps you can take to prepare for an upcoming background check.
  
  One of the most important things you should do is request a copy of your own credit report. Every consumer is entitled to a copy of his or her credit report once a year---simply go to Annualcreditreport.com and peruse your credit file. If you see any errors be sure to contact the credit bureau immediately to have it removed.
  
  

Check Your Driving Record

• If your job requires you to operate a company vehicle your employer will be particularly interested in your driving record. If there is an error in your driving record you may have to fight to keep your job and restore your good reputation. With so much at stake it is a good idea to request a copy of your own driving record before your boss does the background check. Getting a copy is generally quite easy inexpensive so there is no reason not to do it. Simply contact your state's department of motor vehicles, supply your identifying information, pay the required fee and get your driving record.
  
  

Check With Your Former Employer

• If your current employer is planning to institute company-wide background checks it may be a good idea to request a copy of your personnel file from any former employers in your history. An employment history check is generally part of a background check, so if there are any problems they will likely show up there. If you can get a copy of your personnel file you may be able to have any errors or negative information corrected before your new boss sees it. Some employers will be more amenable than others to handing out this information, but it never hurts to ask. Some states even have laws requiring employers to provide this information to former employees who ask for it.