Regarding employment & background searches...?

Question

I've been unemployed for 4 months now. I just interviewed for a position at a medium-sized sales company for an operations manager role. The interview went well; this is the job I always wanted! Anyway, the manager e-mailed me and asked me what the dates of my past employment were. I didn't add that to my resume because the longest job I've held was for about 1 1/2 years!

I have tons of experience; I know I'm really qualified, as I've done similar roles in my past. I really WANT this job! How should I reply?

Lastly, when a company does a background check, what is your past employer allowed to reveal to the inquirer?

Thanks for your help!

Answer 1

If you are a manager than you know 'we' 'bs' together.  Regardless what the law says our conversations are kept confidential.  Typically more information than legally allowed is always shared.  I check 8-15 references a week for IT/Engineering/Sales/Manuf/Entertainment industries.  Although I would never break the law I know it happens all the time :)

Legally in most states all that can be shared:

Dates

Rehire

Pay

Most companies do not pay for background checks although they always make threats - it is just not worth it.  It coast $15 - 20 usually... This is too much even for the most savvy period.

You are what is known as a job hopper.  You should know this.  It is not really a bad thing.  However, it is a serious red flag if you have been employed for more than 4-5 years.  Typically people like to see 2 jobs in 5 years.  3 is questionable more is bells, whistles and buzzers - CAUTION, CAUTION.....

It is what it is.  You can pad the resume extend the dates hope they never call, extend the dates and give a friends number(or voicemail) or be honest...  hope for the job.  All of these frequently happen

Answer 2

Your past employer really isn't allowed to say much about you except what dates did you work and would they rehire you. That's it. I would be honest about the dates you worked at your other jobs if they do background checks. If they questioned why so short, just say there were better opportunities at the other job(s).