If you are applying for a new job or applying for a rental property, running a background check on yourself will show you whether or not the information is accurate. It will also show you whether there are any red flags that could put potential employers on edge. For example, bad driving history, missed loan payments, or a criminal record. Although these red flags may not be deal-breakers, you should be aware of them and know what to look for.
Signs of identity theft
There are several signs of identity theft that can show up on a background check. One of the most common is missing or incorrect mail. Identity thieves may use a change of address scam to reroute your mail, or they may simply steal important documents from your mailbox. In either case, you should check with your bank, credit card, and insurance companies to make sure the address on file is correct. Also, check your bank account statements to see if there are any withdrawals that were not authorized.
Identity theft can also negatively affect your credit scores. Fraudsters can use your credit report information to apply for new credit cards and open new accounts in your name. These fraudulent transactions will eventually result in your credit score plummeting. In some cases, victims may not notice their credit score decline until it’s too late.
Signs of criminal activity
A background check for employment may turn up a number of red flags. A past conviction or incident that occurred years ago may not necessarily be considered a major red flag, but the fact that it was committed still affects the outcome. For example, a person with a past history of theft or fraud may not be suitable for a driving job. Likewise, someone with a criminal record of minor financial fraud may not be suitable for a job in banking or finance. In such cases, the impact of past crimes is more important than the severity of the crime.
Be sure to check your state’s laws to find out what will and will not show up on a background check. In some states, certain types of criminal records are sealed or expunged after a certain period of time. This means that they will not show up on a background check. However, in other states, these records may still be accessible.
Bad driving record
If you have a bad driving record, it may come up on a background check. This is especially important if you’re applying for a job that requires you to drive as part of your duties. A bad driving record can indicate that you’re a risky driver, which could put your employer at risk. It’s important to note that not all employers will consider a bad driving record to be a red flag. Some employers may view it as a minor issue, while others may view it as a major issue.
Bad finances
While many people assume that these checks only reveal criminal records, the truth is that financial history can also be a factor. In fact, bad credit is one of the most common reasons why people are denied employment. There are a number of ways that financial problems can show up on a background check. For example, if an applicant has a history of late payments or collections activity, this will likely appear on their credit report.
Additionally, some employers may run a background check that includes a search of public records, such as bankruptcies or foreclosures. As a result, it’s important to be aware of how your finances may impact your ability to get a job. If you have bad credit, there are a few things you can do to improve your chances of being hired. First, make sure to check your credit report for any errors and dispute them if necessary. Second, try to avoid applying for jobs that require a credit check. And finally, be honest with potential employers about your financial situation and explain what steps you’re taking to improve it. By taking these steps, you can increase your chances of getting the job you want – even with bad credit.
In Conclusion
Running a background check on yourself is a good way to find out if the information on your resume is accurate. It will also show you whether there are any red flags that could put potential employers on edge. Although these red flags may not be deal-breakers, you should be aware of them and know what to look for.
