What if Your Past Employer Goes Silent During Background Verification?

During the background verification process, it is not uncommon for issues to arise that can affect the timely completion and accuracy of the verification. One such issue is when your past employer remains unresponsive to the background verification team or HR. This can be frustrating, but there are several steps you can take to resolve the situation.

Steps to Take if Your Past Employer Goes Silent

If your past employer has gone silent during the background verification process, here are some steps you can take to address the situation:

1. Follow Up with the BGV Team/HR

First, reach out to the background verification team or HR to determine if they have received any responses. Sometimes employers may take longer to respond, or emails may get lost in their inboxes. It's always a good idea to give them a polite reminder that you are waiting for a response.

2. Contact Your Previous Employer Directly

If you have the contact information, try reaching out to your former employer directly to inquire if they received the verification request. Politely ask if they could respond to the BGV team. This ensures that the verification process is moving forward as smoothly as possible.

3. Check for Updated Contact Information

Ensure that the BGV team has the correct contact details for your previous employer. Sometimes companies change their contact information or the individual who would respond may no longer be with the company. Double-check and provide any updated information to the BGV team.

4. Provide Alternative References

If your past employer remains unresponsive, consider providing alternative references who can vouch for your work experience, skills, and character. This can include colleagues, supervisors, or even former clients or customers.

5. Document Your Efforts

Keep a record of all communications with both the BGV team and your past employer. This documentation can be helpful if you need to explain the situation to potential employers. Having a clear record of your efforts to resolve the issue can demonstrate your professionalism and commitment to transparency.

6. Be Prepared for Possible Outcomes

Understand that a lack of response could potentially delay the hiring process or raise questions. Be prepared to address this with the hiring company if it comes up. Stay proactive and maintain a positive attitude throughout the process.

7. Stay Professional

Throughout the process, maintain professionalism in all communications. This will reflect positively on you during the hiring process. Whether you are talking to the BGV team, HR, or your past employer, always keep your tone courteous and respectful.

What to Do if the Issue Persists

If the lack of response from your past employer significantly impacts your job application, consider discussing the situation openly with the prospective employer. Explain the circumstances and how you have addressed the issue. Full transparency is often the best policy in such situations.

It is important to remember that background verification companies like ProQuest have a lot of information and sources to find and verify all the details about you. If the BGV agency could not find anything to ensure the details given, they will likely ask you to contact the employer and either get some proof or have them talk with the verification company. Until then, it's best to stay calm and wait for the results.

In conclusion, maintaining a proactive and professional approach is key during the background verification process. By following these steps, you can help ensure that the verification process moves smoothly and that any issues are resolved in a timely manner.