Avoiding Credit Check Problems with your Job Interview

In today’s day and age, most companies will perform background checks, as well as credit checks.  The reasons that they do this is to make sure that you don’t have a criminal history, or a bad credit score.  Now, you’re probably wondering why a bad credit score can hurt your employment?

 

From what I have been researching, most companies want to perform a credit check to ensure that you know how to manage your finances, or to show that you’re not down on hard times.  Those that are down on hard times may steal from the company, not know how to manage the company’s finances, etc.  As studies have shown in the past, the better the credit score, the better the employee.

 

Now, before you start with the application process, you’re going to want to look at your own background.  You’re going to know your background better than anyone else.  Let’s take a look at a few points on how it can help you.

 

Criminal History – If you have a criminal history, you have to be honest with this.  Don’t lie as they will always catch up with you.  Yes, while those with a criminal history have a hard time getting a job, a liar is going to have just as hard of a time as well.

 

Bankruptcies and more – If you have a bankruptcy from the past, there’s a good chance that your credit score is going to be toast.  While it’s going to take a few years to get that score back up, it’s essential that you’re trying to get it higher, rather than lower.   Secured credit cards and more can help any person rebuild credit, etc.

 

Lawsuits – This is another one that many people don’t think about.  If you have lawsuits pending, or there are previous lawsuits, this can be another red flag.  It’s always best to ensure that you have an explanation in regards to these lawsuits.  While many companies won’t ask about them, it doesn’t hurt to bring them if you feel it’s necessary.

 

Debt – Just like the bankruptcies, it’s just essential that you pay your bill off in full.  When you pay in full, you’re going to be able to avoid credit dings on your report.  If you’re missing payments, or you have an enormous amount of debt, you’re going to find this is going to bring your score down.  ControlYourCredit has a cool calculator on how a purchase can effect your score.

 

While it may seem unfair, you’re going to find that this is what many companies are going to do today.  Bringing your score up to a reasonable number can be justifiable for a company.  Work hard at working your credit score, and good things shall hopefully come for those seeking employment!