What kind of background checks companies do before hiring you?

[sheikalana]

I've recently done an interview for a position that I really want to take. I don't want to go too much into detail but it's a governmental position where I live. The interview went pretty well however, I didn't hear anything since the interview and don't yet know if I got the job or not. I spoke to someone who got the job two years ago and they told me the next step would be background checks and they will also check my social media. As of background checks I don't really understand what they mean by that. I googled myself and didn't find anything linked to my name other than my LinkedIn page. My social media is currently private should I keep it public during this time?

What other checks can they conduct? Can they check my private messages and personal email? I have nothing to hide but it bothers me the fact that someone might be violating my privacy without me knowing.

[purplepoppy]

I can only speak for the uk but I believe most places have a similar system.
A basic background check simply determines you are who you say you are, I. e. Are your identification documents real. They may also check if you have a criminal record.

A higher level check could include checking out your family. I know people with Irish family who've had issues with this stage. If you have any relatives in 'unfriendly' countries it could count against you.

Yes they can check out your internet history, particularly social media posts. Remember this won't just be your current Facebook, they can trace back years over accounts you've long forgotten. They're looking for evidence you have extremist views or associate with that type. Getting your tits out won't count against you but posting political memes might.

The Internet check is only used where you need the highest clearance. Check out who is doing the checking. In uk its often the baring service for basic checks. They should have sent you a link to their site which will explain what they look at.

Government jobs often involve ctc (counter terrorism checks) which are similar. Again the website will explain each level. If your getting an internet check then this is probably the one your having (hope you've been good on gag).

The main thing is be 101% honest and don't leave anything out. Your employer will only see a "clear" report no actual details.

At worse you may need a face-to-face interview. DO NOT LIE, they already know the answers.

[Nikki1989]

I had to show personal references, medical report and a police check.

[Astarlessnightsky]

Here in germany you need an "erweitertes polizeiliches Führungszeugnis" its a copy of your criminal record you can get from your city hall if you want to work in a social field, Kindergarten, Nurse, Teacher... to prevent any abuse of the children, sick and impaired people as well as you don't steal drugs from the pharmacy.

Other than this i have no idea, some companies may call your previous workplaces or google your name...

[strlb]

That depends on the type of position. You mentioned govt work but didn't elaborate so that's difficult to answer b/c some govt jobs require clearances. If your referring to a standard office govt job in county or city it is not in-depth, basic criminal background check and reference check. Good luck!

[sheikalana]

they call it police clearance but I don’t know exactly what that means. someone I know told me they actually check social media.

[AviatorTom]

The background checks that companies have done on me look for things like: any criminal record, any traffic violations or parking tickets, addresses of where I have lived.

[Static_In_The_Attic]

My employer did full & extended background check. Also a credit check, fingerprinting & multiple random drug tests, employment history & more.

[najekim]

Normally criminal and financial backgrounds.

[Guy13]

full criminal and credit from all agencies.

[sheikalana]

What do you mean by agencies?

[Debbie14217]

criminal and work

[In_Trance]

depends what position you apply for

[sheikalana]

it’s a governmental position but I cannot specify what position is it.