Ask Consumer Ed: Background checks - Boston News, Weather, Sports | FOX 25 | MyFoxBoston

Ask Consumer Ed: Background checks

Posted: Updated:
ATLANTA -

What if you are turned down for a job because the information found on a background check didn't match up to what was on the job application? How do you make sure they do match up?

According to Ask Ed, you should first know that different businesses have different practices.  There will be a more in-depth look at who you are if you're applying for a job as a police officer or a teacher.  

But for most of us,  the bar is a little lower but it's still an issue you need to know about.  According to the Governor's Office of Consumer Protection, this is the type of information that can be part of a background check:    

1. Credit Report
2. Criminal Background Check
3. Social Media Check Up

Let's start with the credit report. These days a potential employer might want to see that.  But Ask Ed says, they have to ask your permission first.  You can say no, but know that you might not get the job.
 
If you are applying for the type of job that requires a criminal background check, Ask Ed suggests paying to get one first.  If you had a crazy youth, see what's on there. Also, make sure you ask the potential employer for a copy of the background check he gets.

Next, do a little house cleaning and tidy up those social network accounts. Get rid of crazy pictures, even if they're just for fun. Something that was posted when you were 21 might be out of place with an adult job you're looking for years later.

John Sours, from the Governor's Office of Consumer Protection, says the key is being prepared.

"Be prepared to explain gray areas or discrepancies, because they can be there was well. No public record, just like any private record, is going to be perfect," said Sours.

You should know that for certain jobs a potential employer may talk to your neighbors or friends, and even past employers.

To read consumer Ed's newsletter, click here!

  • I-Team Story Archive

  • Friday, May 24 2013 6:15 AM EDT2013-05-24 10:15:00 GMT
    Some of the greatest damage from Hurricane Sandy was to cars from the flooded streets and garages, and some of those automobiles are expected to trickle into the automobile market.
    Some of the greatest damage from Hurricane Sandy was to cars from the flooded streets and garages, and some of those automobiles are expected to trickle into the automobile market.
  • FOX 5 I-Team investigates

    Thursday, May 23 2013 12:56 AM EDT2013-05-23 04:56:30 GMT
    The FOX 5 I-Team has learned that Douglas County District Attorney David McDade is personally asking the GBI to investigate how money is spent in his office.
    The FOX 5 I-Team has learned that Douglas County District Attorney David McDade is personally asking the GBI to investigate how money is spent in his office.
  • FOX 5 I-Team investigates

    Wednesday, May 22 2013 10:42 PM EDT2013-05-23 02:42:27 GMT
    What do major hotel chains, the IRS, and the business partner of a top rapper have in common? Court records show the National Conference of Black Mayors owes all of them money. Big money.
    What do major hotel chains, the IRS, and the business partner of a top rapper have in common? Court records show the National Conference of Black Mayors owes all of them money. Big money.

Contact the FOX 5 I-Team

* denotes required fields

Log InNot you? Log out
We're sorry, but only one entry is allowed per person.
Thank you for your continued interest.

Thanks for contacting FOX 5.  To reach our newsroom by phone, please call (404) 898-0100.

  • Good Day Archive

  • Friday, May 24 2013 6:53 AM EDT2013-05-24 10:53:05 GMT
    When it comes to sunscreen, is cheaper better?  Consumer Reports says so.
    When it comes to sunscreen, is cheaper better?  Consumer Reports says so.
  • Friday, May 24 2013 5:55 AM EDT2013-05-24 09:55:55 GMT
    The Centers for Disease Control says that every 19 minutes, one person in the U.S. dies from a prescription drug overdose.
    The Centers for Disease Control says that every 19 minutes, one person in the U.S. dies from a prescription drug overdose.  The state of Georgia is trying to do something about the problem, so they've just launched an awareness campaign focused on education and prevention.
  • Friday, May 24 2013 5:29 AM EDT2013-05-24 09:29:02 GMT
    With a little planning, you can turn a vacation into a business trip, and have it tax deductible!
    With a little planning, you can turn a vacation into a business trip, and have it tax deductible!
Powered by WorldNow

25 FOX Drive
Dedham, MA 02026

Phone (781) 467-2525

Didn't find what you were looking for?
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2013 Fox Television Stations, Inc. and Worldnow. All Rights Reserved.
Privacy Policy | Terms of Service | Ad Choices