Modern technology has made it easier than ever to uncover facts about an individual. Background checks do a great job of bringing to light secrets or information that an individual may not want to have out in the open. 

Microsoft has a way of running its background checks through its clouds, called the Microsoft Cloud background check. This article will discuss a Microsoft cloud background check, the background check that Microsoft uses, and factors that could cause you to fail a background check. 

What Background Check does Microsoft Use?

Microsoft strives to ensure a safe working environment for its staff, including protecting their employees and staff’s data. They do this by completing background checks on all employees, new or old. Those currently employed by Microsoft also go through these checks regularly.

Microsoft’s background complies with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Staff members must abide by the Microsoft Personnel Screening Standard to gain access to the following sectors:

• Management entry to services and devices that keep or convey commercial and government customer cloud data 
• Logical access to commercial or government cloud data supplied via specific controlled environments
• Physical entry to secured rooms, server racks, edge sites, co-locations, and data centers

However, there are laws in place in some regions regarding access to people’s private data. Therefore, if any staff member needs to access commercial or government information, they may need more background checks.

Microsoft staff members may go through background checks when they experience changes in their jobs. These changes can include a transfer to a new duty, a new employee assigned to a position requiring the check, or a current responsibility change requiring staff to go through a check. 

What is a Microsoft Cloud Background Check? 

All new employees have to go through the Microsoft Cloud background check, and it is compulsory for all staff who have access to customer data and Microsoft 365 related work. 

The background check reveals all the aspects of an individual. For example, Microsoft goes through the criminal record of potential employees from the last seven years, and they also check the potential employee’s employment history from the previous five years. The purpose of the background check is to ensure transparency in the Microsoft organization. 

However, the process can be different in other countries. For example, in Germany, they use an approval software called Data Trustee. The Data Trustee has access to all of the data collected from customers. For a Microsoft employee to gain access to the data, they will first need the Data Trustee software approval. Results from the background screening are in the staff database and linked to the data centers worldwide. 

In the United States, an individual’s Social Security Number (SSN) is used to do background checks. Similarly, in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, the background check is done with a government-issued identification document. In addition, a background check is also run on an individual’s educational qualifications and whether or not there are any global sanctions and enforcements against the person’s name. 

In addition, employees must renew their Microsoft Cloud background check after it expires. Failure to renew will lead to an automatic loss of access to the Microsoft 365 services and operations. Furthermore, as soon as an employee leaves the company, Microsoft revokes their access to all the Microsoft data centers. 

What Could Cause Me to Fail a Background Check? 

Various reasons could make you fail a background check. Here are a few examples: 

A Criminal Record 

If you have a criminal record, this may impact your application for a new job. Many employers will overlook misdemeanor and older offenses, especially if you are not a regular offender. However, it will disqualify the person for crimes such as rape, murder, and other notorious crimes on an individual’s criminal record. The potential employer will need to consider the nature of the crime concerning the job. For instance, someone charged with drinking and driving is less likely to pose problems for an office position.

Failed Drug Test 

A failed drug test is a common reason many people fail background checks. Referring to the Quest Diagnostics Drug Testing Index, 4.5% of US workers tested positive for drugs in 2019, and this rate was reportedly the highest since 2004. Many employers have a zero-tolerance policy for drugs, and they often outline it in the job agreement. Even if some drugs are legal in your region, many companies still ban their use among their employees. 

Testing for drugs is essential. An employee who mishandles drugs is considered a liability and risks the company. For example, imagine if someone heavy on drugs was operating a piece of heavy machinery, leading to fatal accidents. In addition, it’s pertinent to note that some prescribed medications can lead to a failed drug test, and it’s essential to take along proof of your prescriptions.

Bad Credit History 

Not every employer will do a background check that includes your credit report. However, if your potential job deals with finances, it’s only right for them to look at your credit report. They need to be sure you can manage your finances before trusting you with the company funds. Your employer can ascertain your spending nature from your credit history, and reasonable spending habits indicate you’re responsible with finances. Meanwhile, a bad credit history such as hefty debts or bankruptcy may hinder your chances of passing a background check. Candidates should be allowed to explain if they have bad credit, as employers may find the reason understandable.

Bankruptcy 

Thorough background checks can unveil bankruptcy records, but your potential employers won’t be able to see why you filed for bankruptcy. There is a possibility that your potential employer will ask you to explain your financial challenges. You might also have to explain what steps you are taking to ensure that you quickly get back on your feet. However, this is important for financial jobs that require money handling. Many employers would reason with you if the bankruptcy were due to a medical challenge, divorce, or an unfortunate emergency.

Displaying False Credentials 

Companies run background checks on your credentials to determine their validity. When a candidate lies or exaggerates on their resume, background checks help detect these lies. For example, a candidate may lie about their degree or previous employment history. 

In any organization, dishonesty is a big red flag and could cause you to lose your job or potential placement within the company. Even if you don’t have an outstanding resume, it’s always good to be as honest as possible. Include only truthful information and do not hesitate to hide other information as a background check will reveal it. After all, who wants to hire an employee who isn’t honest in their dealings?

Poor References and Reviews 

Some companies run background checks just on the resume provided, while others might take a step further by running reference checks. These checks involve consulting former bosses and colleagues to ask about the candidate. 

However, you should know that bad feedback doesn’t mean that you will get rejected instantly. If your reference provides bad feedback, it might damage your image, and the input can limit your chances of getting the job. It is essential to ensure that when referencing a former company, you know that you are on good terms with them.

Social Media Activities 

Social media is part of everyday life for most people, and it is a shared space for people to share their thoughts and their lives. Although social media screenings are not always necessary for background checks, it is legal.

Some companies run a check on a potential candidate’s social media platforms. This check allows companies a close look at how an individual chooses to express themselves. It is due to this that some companies disregard some applications. 

Before going for the position, be sure to clean up your social media pages. Traces of violence, illegality, and explicit content can be red flags for most companies. However, it would be best if you didn’t always need to clean up your social media pages. Instead, be careful with posting, sharing, reposting, and commenting on content. Doing this ensures that you can be confident that your social media pages are free from all forms of controversy.

Bad Driving Record 

Checking for driving records helps companies avoid any legal and insurance repercussions if the employee gets into an accident with the company’s vehicle.

Your driving record might not play a part in your background check if you apply for an office job. It will, however, play a huge role if the position requires you to do any driving for the company. Poor driving history will include citations for reckless driving, over-speeding, driving while under the influence.

Although one or two citations for overspeeding shouldn’t alter your chances of qualifying for the job, multiple charges for reckless driving, drinking and driving can jeopardize your chances of getting a job. It’s advisable to be as honest and transparent as possible when explaining major driving offenses.

Background Check Mistakes

You may be reading this piece and believe that you will effortlessly pass any background check because of your clean record. You have a good driving history, a clean criminal record, a great relationship with former colleagues and employers, etc. Although it’s good that you have a clean record, you shouldn’t assume you’ll pass a background check because mistakes do happen.  

Sometimes, even the most accurate detectors are prone to mistakes. These mistakes can happen on an applicant’s file simply because they share the same name with a convict. 

In some cases, an individual can be a victim of identity theft. Therefore, you have the right to ask that the identity theft information be blocked from your report. In addition, you should convince your potential employer that you’ve been victimized before a background check shows red signals. You can do this by providing a copy of the police report or an authorization note from the lawful agencies.

Furthermore, if you notice identity theft issues, it’s advisable to freeze your bank accounts and tighten the security on your accounts. Ensure that you always review your credit reports. Doing this helps to minimize the occurrence of identity thefts.

Eligibility to Work in your Chosen Country

Before looking for employment, you should ensure you’re eligible to work in that country. Some employers may require you to fill out an Employment Eligibility Form. This form reveals if an applicant is eligible for the selected job. Job applicants must present documents verifying their identity and employment authorization status.

Conclusion 

Background checks are necessary for the employment process. It helps to reveal the things about a candidate that they won’t likely add to their resume and helps to avoid selection mistakes. In the case of Microsoft, they regularly run background checks on their employees that have access to customer data.  

As a job seeker, there is a chance that you might need to carry out specific tasks before applying for a job. One such task is running a check beforehand. By doing this, you will see whatever comes up before your potential employer does. If any mistakes or issues are found, such as your identity being stolen, you can correct them before your potential employer knows about them. That way, you won’t encounter any strange surprises that could disqualify you. 

If your application has been rejected due to a background check, you have a right to know why. You can get a written explanation from the employer explaining why you didn’t get the job. Alternatively, you could request a free copy of the background check along with an explanation as to why you didn’t get the job. If there’s any mistake, you can clear your name, so you have a better chance of qualifying for your next job.