Career GlossaryBackground Check
Career Definition
What is Background Check?
A pre-employment screening process that verifies a candidate's identity, criminal history, employment history, education, and credit record.
In-Depth Definition
Background checks are conducted by third-party services like Checkr, Sterling, or HireRight after a conditional offer has been extended. They typically include criminal records, employment verification, education verification, and sometimes credit history.
The scope of the check varies by industry: financial services and government positions tend to have the most thorough screenings, while tech startups may only run basic criminal and employment verifications.
Why Background Check Matters in 2026
Discrepancies between your resume and background check results can lead to immediate offer rescission. Always be truthful about employment dates, titles, and education credentials.