By Christian Moore
Landing your ideal position in public relations demands more than an impressive résumé and dynamic interview skills; it also hinges on acing the background check. With the market as competitive as it is, aspiring PR professionals need to recognize potential pitfalls in this pivotal stage and adeptly address them if they’re going to stand out as top candidates.
To help, here are several red flags commonly seen on résumés and background checks as well as how to address them going forward.
Employment Gaps
First, being unemployed for a significant length of time could be costing you opportunities. These employment gaps might signal to employers that there are potential concerns about your reliability or commitment. You should transform these gaps into narratives of growth and resilience.
During interviews, articulate any constructive activities you undertook, such as freelancing, volunteering or studying. This proactive engagement demonstrates your commitment to professional development. You could also opt for a functional résumé format that highlights your skills and achievements, steering focus away from chronological employment gaps.
Past Offenses
Next, a history of legal issues could significantly affect your job prospects, particularly if the offenses are relevant to PR’s ethical standards. It’s essential to handle this delicately and transparently.
Address such issues with honesty upfront in your applications or interviews. Outline your rehabilitation efforts and any corrective steps taken — such as participating in community service or behavioral improvement programs — to emphasize your integrity and personal growth since the incident.
Inconsistent Work History
Another common red flag is a pattern of frequent job changes, which can create doubts about your stability and commitment to a long-term role.
When discussing your work history, be prepared to explain these transitions positively. Frame them as strategic moves designed to enhance your skills and contribute to your professional growth. Highlight how these diverse experiences have equipped you with a broad skill set that is ideal for PR roles.
Poor Credit History
Financial responsibility is another critical aspect evaluated during background checks, especially for roles that involve handling budgets or financial planning.
If your financial history is less than stellar, address any concerns directly and openly. Discuss the steps you’ve taken towards financial stability, such as entering debt management plans or undergoing financial counseling. Demonstrating proactive efforts to resolve financial issues like this can help alleviate concerns about your fiscal responsibility.
Discrepancies in the Application
Lastly, any discrepancies between the information you provide and public records or references could seriously undermine your credibility.
Make certain all information you provide in your cover letter, résumé and application is accurate and verifiable. Be prepared to address and rectify any discrepancies that may arise during the background check process, providing context or corrections as needed.
Vetting and Technology in Hiring
More and more employers — particularly in sensitive fields like PR — are utilizing advanced vetting tools and technologies as part of their modern hiring practices. These range from comprehensive digital background checks and employee vetting services to social media screenings and behavioral assessments.
As you continue your job search, you should familiarize yourself with these practices so that you might tailor your online persona and professional profile to meet increasingly rigorous standards. For instance, performing a personal audit of your digital footprint and making necessary adjustments to any public information that might cast a shadow on your professional image could make a world of difference to a prospective employer.
Moving Forward With Confidence
Successfully navigating the background check process demands awareness, preparation and integrity. By adopting these qualities as well as a proactive approach to the hiring process, it positions you as a reliable and skilled candidate who is ready to make a meaningful impact in the PR industry.
With some work, you can step into your interviews prepared to demonstrate your capabilities as not only a proficient professional but also as an adaptable and forward-thinking individual.
Christian Moore is COO at Global Verification Network. He has more than 20 years of investigative and business experience with competencies including surveillance, competitive intelligence, pre-employment and course-of-employment background screening.
Additional Resource: Background Check Red Flags