I'm applying for jobs that require a local law enforcement background check, and I suspect that it's turning up information that's [really] detrimental to being hired! What kind of information could they be finding? How could I find out what's on my background check? Finally, is there any way to delicately address these issues in job applications/cover letters without digging myself into a hole? [more inside]
posted by anonymous on Oct 18, 2007 - 18 answers

How long does a background check for federal employment take these days? [more inside]
posted by dilettante on Sep 20, 2007 - 13 answers

"Professional reference letter" from my current employer. What does it mean in this context? And how can I get this without them knowing I'm looking elsewhere? [more inside]
posted by gazole on Apr 30, 2007 - 9 answers

Did I permanently screw up my work history? Last summer I worked a string of three dead-end jobs, none of which lasted more than two weeks. One was a contractor position; the other two were regular jobs that withdrew taxes and social security on a regular basis. I was broke, desperate, and depressed at the time. [more inside]
posted by anonymous on Jan 13, 2007 - 10 answers

Employment history filter: I am starting a new job after about a year of intermittent contract work padded between various stages of unemployment. Though I never lied about anything, they might uncover that my past year has in fact been really spotty in terms of work (during interviews, we talked about my contract projects, but they didn't ask about specific dates or durations). Does this make me screwed? [more inside]
posted by anonymous on Oct 27, 2006 - 7 answers

Background checks: I have a job interview coming up, and wonder if they'll do a credit check. If they do, I'm in trouble. I need this job very badly...thus the bad credit. Besides credit, employers may check education and criminal backgrounds (mine are clean), but do they have to let you know? How do you ask a potential employer about this without raising flags? While we're on it, is there a secret shit-list out there that employers may go to to see if you're a loser? Especially in software/web development in the northwest...
posted by anonymous on Jan 10, 2005 - 42 answers