Your job search process involves more than just preparing your resume and answering want ads.  You should bear in mind that prospective employers will conduct pre employment screenings. Not knowing what they will learn about you puts you at a disadvantage in your search for employment. It’s not enough to rely on a hand picked reference.

Prospective employers will check the following:

Education – To verify the level of education that the candidate claims.

Tip:  Don’t exaggerate your level of education the schools you attended or anything related to your education.

Credential Verification- Verifies status of license and any disciplinary actions. 

Tip:  Be truthful about current license status. Know renewal/expiration dates.  Be prepared to discuss any disciplinary actions they uncover.

Criminal Records- Verifies if the candidate has committed any crime or misdemeanor. 

Tip:  Be honest on applications about any criminal record. Being upfront doesn’t necessarily mean you will not be considered for a position.   Employers have access to multi-state databases so don’t assume an infraction committed two states ago will be missed.  You may go to your local county courthouse and request your own criminal record. If an erroneous charge appears you should begin the process of clearing your record right away.  Pay your tickets promptly to avoid further action. 

Professional References- Verifies whether the candidate has supervisors and/or peers that will vouch for their work ethic and confirm dates on resumes. 

Tip: Always maintain a list of previous employers/supervisors whom you may list as professional references.  These should be people who have first-hand knowledge of your work ethics, skills and ability to work with others.  Stay in touch with them and let them know what you are doing.  Give them a heads up if you are expecting people to call them.  If possible share with them the position and strengths that you are promoting to the employer. 

Personal References- Verifies whether the candidate has supervisors and/or peers that will vouch for their work ethic, quality of work, professionalism and confirm dates on resume. 

Tip: Maintain a list of coworkers, people with whom you’ve volunteered or participated in social or recreational activities.  They will serve as character references.  Bear in mind that these references will not carry as much weight as professional references.

A bit of pro-active planning and research on your part helps you to be confident going into interviews.  Check your own credit rating, correct any inaccuracies in your criminal history. Job seekers have discovered that they are victims of identity theft.  Crimes have been committed using their stolen identities. Often, a victim doesn’t find out until they have been denied employment.  If you are denied employment because of a criminal background report you have the right to request a copy for review.