Lifestyle

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I am an administrative professional and have been out of work for over a year. I’ve had a number of good interviews and then been asked to sign a release for a background check. After all that, I often never hear from the company again. I have good references, no criminal history, a good credit rating and a fine driving record, but I suspect there may be some erroneous information in my background check or references. I also know that some of the companies I have worked for do not give references but only acknowledge position title and dates of employment. What should I do?

I have to admit that it is very strange for you never to hear again from multiple employers who have requested a background check. Are you sure you’re not like Jason Bourne?!

Many employers only verify title and dates of employment, so that shouldn’t be holding you back. You need to find out what is on your record and what references are saying. Pay a background check firm to vet you, just as your potential employers are; such services are easy to find online and cost under $100. Make sure to speak with your references before giving them out.

I’ve been taking a lot of time off for health reasons. My employer says my job is in jeopardy. Can they fire me for being out for a legitimate illness?

I’m sorry that you’re not well, and I’m sure the stress of the job pressure isn’t helping. There are some job protections for some period of time for absence due to illness. The Family and Medical Leave Act provides up to 12 weeks of protected time off due to illness. There are many details and nuances to that law; also, disability policies and how absences due to illness are handled under company sick time can vary from company to company. The reality is that even under those laws and policies employees can be fired for performance or excessive absenteeism depending on too numerous circumstances to cover here. Discuss the matter with your HR Department and legal department to make sure you understand all of the policies covering your particular situation — and your rights and obligations. Good luck.