Are you in the process of searching for employment or do you plan to look for a job at any time soon?  In order to avoid disappointments, it is very important to be prepared in all aspects of the job application process.

Are you done creating your resume and cover letter?  Did you research for possible job interview questions online so you can prepare the most effective answers?  Are you done practicing your answers?  Have you checked out the possible resources where you can find job opportunities?  If you are finished with all these steps, surely you are ready to begin your job search.

However, there is one more thing that you should not forget and it has to do with your personal credit.  Have you checked your credit report?  Some job seekers may not realize how important it is to check their credit report but if you really want to secure a job, it’s best to do everything you can to improve your chances of getting hired.

Why Check Your Credit Report

Even if you know that you do not have outstanding debts and confident about your credit record, it is still important to check your report prior to job application.  Why?  Erroneous reporting is not a rare case and you may discover errors in your report which could hurt your reputation.  Such errors can easily be corrected by sending a dispute letter to the credit bureau that issued your report.

[Article: How to Get Your Free Credit Report]

Is Pre-employment Credit Screening Allowed?

Do employers check credit reports before hiring applicants?  The answer is yes! Many companies do use credit history to evaluate a person’s employment history, background, and credibility.  While personal credit score is not always a relevant factor to get hired, the information contained in your report can significantly influence an employer’s decision whether or not to hire a candidate.

In some industries, the applicant’s credit history and credit score can be determining factors in getting hired.  This would depend on the position you are applying for.  Typically, pre-employment credit screening is done in professions that involve handling of finances and confidential information.

In certain professions, individuals with bad credit history may not get hired at all.  Although the Federal Law states that employers cannot refuse a job applicant based on credit history alone, an employer may give other reasons for not hiring, aside from bad credit.

For instance, a banking institution may prefer to hire candidates that are not just qualified to do the job but also with clean credit histories.  Clearly, an impressive credit standing can give you the edge you need over your competitors.

Is it legal? Yes, credit check is a legal process.  However, a company must first disclose the fact that they will be conducting credit-screening or that credit check is part of the application process. The job applicant must first give consent before credit check can be made.  With this in mind, you can greatly improve your chances of landing the job you want if you are confident about your personal credit.

About the Author

Melanie Mathis is a credit analyst and a writer for 8 years. She has been participating in the programs of NHBS, Inc such as their continuous effort in giving out Free Credit Repair and Building Ebook. NHBS also has a list of recommended Bad Credit Credit Cards .

Information in these articles is brought to you by www.newhorizon.org. Banks, issuers, and credit card companies mentioned in the articles do not endorse or guarantee, and are not responsible for, the contents of the articles.

About Melanie Mathis

Melanie Mathis is a credit analyst and a writer for 8 years. She has been participating in the programs of NHBS, Inc such as their continuous effort in giving out Free Credit Repair and Building Ebook. Connect with Melanie Mathis on Google+