So you sent out a perfect resume outlining your skills and background. You landed the interview and rocked that too. They call you with an offer. You have a new job, right? Not so fast.

 

Many times those offers are contingent upon other tests and verification, whether they are just checking your dates of employment to make sure your resume is correct or performing an extensive background and credit check. The following list outlines some of the other hoops you may need to jump through before you start that new job.

 

Drug Tests

Just because marijuana is legal in Washington doesn’t mean employers – especially private ones – are willing to look the other way. Companies who do drug tests will usually disqualify you immediately if you come back positive for anything they are testing for – marijuana included.

 

Social Media Test

Employers can check social media at various points in the hiring process, but just because you have the offer doesn’t mean they can’t still look. Candidates have shared horror stories of landing their dream job only to have the offer rescinded after a future-coworker found an unfavorable picture of them at a bachelorette party.

 

Credit Check

Credit checks are common in specific industries like finance and wealth management. Mostly, they are looking for major credit concerns like bankruptcies, repossessions and judgements.

 

Background Check

Background checks are pretty common. Depending on the security clearance of your new position, a varying degree of your past may be considered. They are mainly looking for trouble with the law like felony convictions.

 

Driving Record

Even if your main job isn’t driving, your new employer may request a check of your driving record. Executive Assistants are often required to drive company cars or run errands for the business on company time.

 

References

Choose people who actually know you – your direct supervisors work best. Make sure they remember you and are willing to speak to someone about you and your work. If you sense any hesitation ask them about it – and consider using someone else. Verify that the information you have on your resume matches what they will say. Dates of employment, responsibility level and duties are often places where discrepancies can become clear.

 

Be honest. If you have a potential issue, bring it up before the employer finds out on their own. This gives you a chance to explain the circumstances without having to be on the defensive.