Companies’ Background Checks for Internship Candidates: Resumes, College Enrollments, and Volunteer Work

Applying for an internship can be a very competitive process. Companies are often looking for talented and dedicated individuals who can contribute to their workforce. As part of the selection process, many organizations go beyond the initial resume and conduct various forms of background checks and verifications. This includes checking the authenticity of one's educational credentials, volunteer work, and prior internships. In this article, we will explore the depth of these background checks and the measures that companies take to ensure the validity of an applicant's resume.

Verification of Educational Credentials

When it comes to college enrollment and volunteerism, companies do often authenticate the information presented on a resume, especially when the applicant is applying for an internship that requires access to sensitive data or proprietary information. The depth of investigation can vary significantly from one company to another, but it is common for intern candidates to undergo background checks and verifications to ensure their resumes are legitimate.

For instance, a summer volunteer position at a hospital can provide a valuable reference for your experience. However, it is important to have an official confirmation of this work. You can obtain an official watermarked transcript in a sealed envelope, which is the closest thing to an official record. Another example is a signed letter from the auxiliary office confirming your work period and total hours, further verifying your experience and commitment.

Background Checks and Reference Verification

The extent of an intern candidate's background check can vary widely depending on the company's policies and the nature of the internship. At a minimum, most organizations will conduct a criminal background check and verify your standing at your college. Additionally, references are likely to be checked.

At the company where I worked previously, software interns were checked as carefully as normal hires, given their access to proprietary product information. This highlights the importance of thorough background checks in determining the trustworthiness of an intern candidate.

Volunteer and Externship Verification

Verification of information contained on a resume is a common practice when hiring volunteers, interns, or externs. Background checks not only apply to regular hires but can be extensive for these roles as well. However, not all companies conduct the same level of scrutiny. Some might just confirm your current or past affiliation with a school, while others may conduct a more in-depth authentication process.

Expect Preparing for Thorough Verification

Given the potential thoroughness of background checks and verifications, it is wise to be prepared. Ensure that all the information on your resume is accurate and verifiable. Providing official transcripts, signed letters from organizations, and other supporting documentation can help speed up the process and increase your chances of a positive outcome.

If you are applying for an internship, it is crucial to be aware of these measures and take appropriate steps to present yourself as a credible and reliable candidate. By doing so, you can increase your chances of securing an internship opportunity and contributing meaningfully to the organization.