Is A Background & Reference Check Appropriate Prior To Getting A Job Offer?

Question

Hi All,

I have been in a 3-month long interview process moving through 5 steps. I was informed last night that the company had to "conduct a background and reference check before extending a final offer". Does this mean I got the job? Should I be concerned on what a background and reference check will do? It was unclear in the employer's tone over the phone and it wasn't clear on whether it was official that I got the job or if I should continute to see this as another step in the process.

Answer 1

It's very customary for a company to do a background and reference check. It's also a good sign that they have an interest in you for the job. Be patient. If everything checks out ok, you'll probably be talking salary soon. Congratulations.

Answer 2

It means they're interested in you enough to spend the money to have background and reference checks done. As to the relevance of these background checks, that depends on the type of job you are applying for. Any government, security, banking or airline jobs will require these types of background investigations. If you have nothing to hide there's no reason to be concerned and you probably won't even know these checks are being done. As to whether you got the job or not will probably depend on the result of these background checks. If they do not get back in touch with you within a reasonable time period, I would inquire to the employer as to the status of your application and background check and ask if there is any further information you can provide to help them make their decision. Hope this helps and good luck to you!

Answer 3

This is unusual because background checking can be expensive. Most companies don't want to do it and then find out that the applicant took another job somewhere else., so they extend an offer subject to your passing the background check. (This means that if you lied or hid stuff, they can fire you.)

I know someone who got fired because he lied about his college degree. The joke is: a degree wasn't required for the job. (He got fired for the lie on the application, not for not having the degree.)

Answer 4

It costs money to do a background check, so yes, it's a good sign. It doesn't guarantee the job, but stay positive.

Answer 5

This is not at all unusual.

In every case I have ever heard about- even when I have hired people- when the hiring company conducts a background check, it basically means you have the job unless they find something they do not like. (e.g. you lied on your CV)

Answer 6

It's just another step. The good news is these cost the company money and they most likely would not do this unless you are a very good candidate.

Good Luck

Answer 7

It's done all the time. But you must be one of the finalists if they worded it like that. Congrats!!! Sounds like you'll get it if your record is clean.