Ask Consumer Ed: Background checks - Dallas News | myFOXdfw.com

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

  • Monday, May 20 2013 8:26 AM EDT2013-05-20 12:26:58 GMT
    How many bank accounts do you have?  Most of us have a few.  But it might be time to start paring down.
    How many bank accounts do you have?  Most of us have a few.  But it might be time to start paring down.
  • Monday, May 20 2013 6:44 AM EDT2013-05-20 10:44:05 GMT
    Maria Boudet is a teen who had been living in foster care. She worked hard and earned a college scholarship. But the scholarship was revoked when Boudet's life-long wish was answered; she was adopted.
    Maria Boudet is a teen who had been living in foster care. She worked hard and earned a college scholarship. But the scholarship was revoked when Boudet's life-long wish was answered; she was adopted.
  • Monday, May 20 2013 6:38 AM EDT2013-05-20 10:38:06 GMT
    A government report shows that even though there are more women than ever in the work force, women still have a hard time saving for retirement.
    A government report shows that even though there are more women than ever in the work force, women still have a hard time saving for retirement.

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

  • Monday, May 20 2013 11:00 AM EDT2013-05-20 15:00:34 GMT
    When the pools open on Memorial Day weekend, it's going to be hard to keep your kids away from the water. 
    When the pools open on Memorial Day weekend, it's going to be hard to keep your kids away from the water.  But before summer gets into full swing, we've got some tips to help you make sure your children stay safe at the pool.
  • Meet the Good Day Pets for Monday, May 20!
    Meet the Good Day Pets for Monday, May 20!
  • Monday, May 20 2013 9:52 AM EDT2013-05-20 13:52:30 GMT
    The nasty divorce between Real Housewives of Atlanta star Portia Stewart and her husband, former NFL star Kordell Stewart, just got nastier.
    The nasty divorce between Real Housewives of Atlanta star Portia Stewart and her husband, former NFL star Kordell Stewart, just got nastier.  TMZ's Harvey Levin filled us in on the latest on Good Day!
Powered by WorldNow

KDFW FOX 4
400 N. Griffin Street
Dallas, Texas 75202

Main Station Directory:
(214) 720-4444
News Fax:
(214) 720-3263 or (214) 720-3333

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