Job Interview: I was excited about a job interview as an engineer. However there is one big problem!!

Question

I have done all applications and even their test however they have asked me to sign a waiver to disclose my consumer information that requires a social security.

It is a large company that is well known. However, I am concerned if this is standard practice. It is not as thought that they are looking for a CORI (Criminal check) but this would enable them to check my credit history- which is spotless but show ...well, my business. I also believe that this would allow them to see what other jobs I work at as obviously I believe that they can use my SS# to check me.

Have any of you experienced the same issue and any thoughts on this?

Answer 1

Yes, your SS# can be used to find out a little bit of everything about you and yes, it is becoming more and more common (especially with big companies and any company where confidential info or bribery could be a factor).  They will certainly use it to see if you have told them the truth when you applied for your job.  They will see if you have trouble that could affect your job.  What if you have a history of getting into a lot of debt and you are applying for a job where you would have access to developing company secrets (that you could sell to get out of that debt)??  This is the argument that companies use for getting the info.  And it isn't necessarily a bad argument.

There is, of course, the privacy issue.  If you don't want them to know about your personal info, then you can always refuse.  Yet, most of the companies that demand it, are actually demanding and not asking.  The 'corporate think' is that if you don't want them looking, then you must have something to hide.  Ultimately, you have to decide if the job is worth letting them into your intimate financial details.  Good luck to you!

Answer 2

It's common practice these days for potential employers to run background checks including credit checks on applicants.  You will encountered this at most places to which you apply.

Answer 3

This is common practice.  It helps the employer determine if your trustworthy and able to handle yourself.