In my last article I discussed the B’s of the A, B, C’s of pre-employment testing –behavior. Now let’s discuss the last part of the A, B, C’s – character. This part could include a lie detector test, background check (which normally includes both civil and criminal background), checking your credit score and drug and/or alcohol testing.
Another check that a company might use to determine your character is a credit check. How you handle your own personal finances says a lot about your character – your sense of responsibility and accountability. If you are not handling your finances very well, this will give the company pause as to how you might handle their equipment or any type of financial responsibilities. If you have anything in your background such as an alias or a bankruptcy or slow on paying bills, tell them. It is better to tell them instead of them finding out on a credit check.
If you are seeking a position with a Fortune 500 company, you can pretty much expect the background check, credit check and drug test. It has been my experience to expect a drug test immediately after the interview on the same day! The company does not want to give you time to “study” for the test. Companies use different means of drug testing requesting not only a urine test but in some cases a blood test and even a hair sample. The most common test is the urine test and the most common drugs tested for include alcohol, meth, barbiturates, cannabis and cocaine. But they could check for Phenobarbital, benzo, codeine, heroin and so on. Depending upon the use, these substances can take anywhere from a day to a month to leave your system. If the company uses a blood test, the timeframes for substances to be gone from your body are about the same. However, if the company takes a hair sample, the typical timeframe is 90 days. So, if you fall into any of these categories and you are a job seeker – beware.
A background check is very typical especially for larger companies. They will check to see if you have had any civil or criminal activities and this includes your driving record. Do not try to hide it. If you have any negative activities in your background, tell them upfront. It doesn’t mean that the company will not hire you if you have any negative items on your record but it sure does go a long way to identifying your character to them.
Depending upon the job position and the company, you could be required to take a lie detector test. Again, I have been required to take one of these and it is extremely nerve racking. However, if you have nothing to hide, it goes quickly and smoothly. Just relax the best you can and answer the questions.
Another check that a company might use to determine your character is a credit check. How you handle your own personal finances says a lot about your character – your sense of responsibility and accountability. If you are not handling your finances very well, this will give the company pause as to how you might handle their equipment or any type of financial responsibilities. If you have anything in your background such as an alias or a bankruptcy or slow on paying bills, tell them. It is better to tell them instead of them finding out on a credit check.
This series was intended to give you a brief look into the hiring practices of many companies today. You know what your situation is and, if you have any issues in the A, B, C’s of hiring, now is the time to start cleaning them up.
By: Nancy Anderson, Staff Writer
Become a member to take advantage of more features, like commenting and voting.
Register or sign in today!