Why Is My Background Check Still Pending For Job?
Background checks are an important assessment tool for employers. It helps them determine if an applicant is honest and trustworthy. But, sometimes, a background check can take more than expected and can cause delays in a hiring process.
What Should I Do If My Background Check Is Still Pending?
If you’re wondering why your background check is still pending after several days, there are several steps you can take:
- Contact the employer – Check with the employer to see if they are experiencing any delays. Sometimes, they’ll be able to provide you with more information or an update.
- Request an update – Ask the employer if they can provide an update. Some employers have guidelines in place regarding how frequently they can provide updates.
- Speak with the background check provider – Speak to the background check provider and ask if there are any issues that are causing the delay.
What Could Cause a Delay in My Background Check?
There are many factors that can contribute to your background check taking longer than expected. Here are some of the most common:
- Incorrect or outdated information – Background checks review data from national and state databases, so incorrect or outdated information can cause delays. It’s up to the background check provider to verify the accuracy of this data.
- Outstanding court documents – If an applicant has a criminal record, employers must check all court documents related to the case. This can take time.
- Background check backlog – Depending on the size of the employer, some background check providers may experience a backlog in their investigations. This can cause delays.
Conclusion
It’s natural to be anxious when your background check is taking longer than expected. But, it’s important to remember that delays happen, and there’s often a logical explanation. Contacting the employer, requesting an update, and speaking with the background check provider can all help you expedite the process.