collider wrote on Apr 15
th, 2006 at 8:10pm:
Hi all. So I survived the polygraph (barely). For the obvious reasons, I don't want to draw attention to that or be congratulated or anything - I'm just moving right onto the background check.
It was delayed for a couple of reasons and is about to get underway. All of my references are very cool, but a couple are kind of freaked out and want to know what to expect.
Also, I was laid off from a previous job (not for cause) and I'd like to know what they're going to ask my previous employer. I was in the hiring pipeline when I got laid off, and mentioned the possibility of a background check to my boss at the time - he said it wouldn't be a problem as those kinds of things ask about trustworthiness and competence and stuff.
If anyone here has served as a reference in the past and knows what kind of questions to expect (whether as a "friend" reference or a past employer reference), please let me know what kind of questions are asked.
Thanks
Collider,
If you've had no trouble in the employment arena, then you have nothing to worry about with the background check. The questions vary depending on the agency. Don't sweat the getting laid off w/o cause. Though, if you were in the middle of the hiring process, there may not be much for that employer to add other than perhaps checking the information you provided in your application there with the information you provided your future employer. Here's an idea of what you can expect to be asked of your former employers and co-workers:
Does he function well under pressure?
Have you ever seen him lose his temper?
What kinds of Rx drugs has he taken?
Have you ever known him to abuse alcohol or use and/or sell illegal drugs?
Is he eligible for rehire? (Employer only)
Are there any write-ups in his file? (Employer only)
What were his job responsibilities?
Do you know him to harbor any ill feelings toward one particular group--eg. minorities, religious group?
Is he loyal to the U.S Government?
What kind of person is he--of high moral character?
Can he be trusted to guard classified information?
Is this a person you would recommend for employment with this agency?
Hope this helps put your mind at ease.