How Long Does a Pre Employment Background Check Take?
Almost everyone expects their institutions of the future to carry out a background check since it is a part of the new-age hiring process. Background checks give one’s educational qualifications, working history, their previous criminal records, etc. A very basic question that arises is how long does pre employment background check take, as asked by both job aspirants and employers?
One of the many factors affecting the time required for a background check is the type of check being conducted. Other factors that could contribute to variation in time include agency cooperation and anything that stirs the attention of the agency. This article will walk us through what a typical timeline might be for a background check, show us what takes longer because of delays, and how job seekers can speed up the waiting game.
How Long Does a Pre Employment Background Check Typically Take?
The time period for the completion of background checks varies based on many issues, including the background check type that is being executed as well as how resourceful the employer is. On average, the time for such checks ranges anywhere from a few days to weeks. Simple checks are usually of short duration, while background checks that cover criminal records or international reference checks tend to last longer.
Complexity has a particular bearing on the length taken to conduct the background check for an applicant. In case an applicant has a long work history, or in case the background check includes some in-depth screenings such as drug tests or credit reports, then, it is likely to take a lot longer. However, in most cases, employers try to finish everything between one to two weeks so that they can progress with the hiring activity as smoothly as possible.
Breakdown of Different Pre Employment Background Check Types and Their Timelines
Criminal Background Check:
Normally, records should be processed within 1-3 business days however, exceptions exist for national and international records purging.
Employment Verification:
It should generally take less than a week before you hear back from the contract partner.
Education Verification:
It is bound to take about 3-5 business days, sometimes longer if the processing system at the institution is slow, especially in the case of a post-dated check.
Reference Checks:
On an average of 2-4 days depending upon the availability of sources.
Credit Check:
Customarily, these take 1-3 days.
Drug Testing:
You typically find out results within 24-72 hours.
International Background Check:
It may take time between 10 and 20 business days as the attendant verification processes involve a few jurisdictions.
Factors That Can Delay a Pre Employment Background Check
However, not all background checks are wrapped up so quickly. Numerous factors may cause potential setbacks.
1. Incomplete or Inaccurate Information
Providing wrong or incomplete information like Social Security or incorrect employer details can slow down the verification officers’ processes.
2. Slow Response from Employers or Institutions
The longer it takes past employers or institutions to verify information, the longer it would take to complete the process.
3. Common Name or Multiple Records
It may extend the processing period if the applicant bears a familiar name or has a name that matches more than one person’s record.
4. Manual Processing in Certain Jurisdictions
For certain regions that may not maintain their records as computerized, manual inspections are needed and further time is consumed.
5. International Background Checks
When a candidate has further experience from an overseas institution, the overseas verification process can take longer because of the duration and legal requirements.
6. Legal Restrictions or Compliance Issues
In certain jurisdictions, privacy laws might influence how quickly information can be shared, consequently causing delays in the process of background checks.
Steps on How to Expedite a Pre Employment Background Check
It will be good for you to hear all the results of your background check. It will be beneficial to know what comes up. You might have specific hopes for what the results will show. Whether it’s a sure thing or not, it’s important to be prepared for whatever information surfaces.
Double-Check Your Information
Ensure all of the given personal details, job history, and education data are precise and up-to-date.
Notify Your Previous Employers and References
Notify those individuals who could provide references for you, such as a past employer or reference. So that they might have some idea that they would be contacted and thus be prepared to respond promptly.
Provide Necessary Documents Quickly
Save everything related to the ER of the session/spot if they are open to a third party seeking more evidence.
Monitor Your Emails and Phone Calls
Getting in touch with each other so that all the possible questions that may be asked about these questions can be answered.
What Can Be Done If a Pre Employment Background Check Is Taking Too Long?
When applying for a job, renting a new apartment, or performing other official actions, background checks are common attachments. But it does happen in some cases that it takes a little more time than the usual wait time. In such a situation, especially if your background check takes longer than normal, you need to stay calm and do a few things to address. It speaks with the company conducting the background check, verifies that all documents and information are in order, and keeps patience while they wrap up the check.
Additionally, you may want to follow up with the relevant authorities, understand any delays, or inquire about the status to get a clearer idea of the timeline. This guide will help you navigate this situation and provide tips for resolving delays efficiently.
Conclusion
Usually, an employment check will take 2 to 5 business days, but delays due to several reasons may also ensue. Both employers and job applicants should know the process and follow up to facilitate the verification. If your background check happens to take longer than expected, do not shy away from calling in to check if all needed information has been provided correctly.
Preparation and awareness will allow the background search procedure to pass by effortlessly and enable you to maintain your spirit while advancing during the job search.
