Background Checks in IT: Do They Verify Your Project Details and Duration?

Hi, I want to know, during a background check verification in an IT company, do they check the projects mentioned in the CV and the duration as well?

I extended the current project tenure because I was more comfortable answering interview questions related to this project. However, now that I have reached the joining date at the reputed MNC, I realize that it might work against me during the background verification process if HR, supervisors, or third parties cross-check all the project tenures listed on my CV.

I am feeling anxious about this situation. Could you please guide me on how to handle this issue?

Your help and suggestions are greatly appreciated. Thank you!

It is highly unlikely that a background check will cover and/or validate the projects or their duration as mentioned in your CV. Fundamentally, information of this nature is company confidential information and would not be shared with external parties like background checking companies.

Aspects Checked During Background Verification

Normally, the aspects checked as part of background verification include the following:

- Personal Information: Name, Nationality, Gender, Date of Birth, Father's Name, Present/Permanent Address, Phone numbers, etc.
- Academic Qualifications: Class XII, Graduation, etc., with details such as Year of Passing, College Name, Course Name, Roll No, etc.
- Work Experience: Record of Previous Jobs, Name of Company, Designation, Duration of employment, etc. This includes reference checks and professional certifications/memberships, if any.
- Criminal Record: Validation with police if the candidate has a criminal track record.
- Drug Testing: Some organizations require candidates to undergo medical tests specifically directed at identifying if there is a history of drug abuse.
- Financial Track Record: Some organizations require tracking of the financial history of candidates, including liens, civil judgments, bankruptcy cases, financial fraud complaints, etc.
- Validation of Photograph and Biometrics: These are normally done only via the National Skills Registry.

However, if you have stated that as a result of handling/executing a project you have acquired certain skills, then the prospective employer would test your levels of competence in these areas.

All the best.

Regards,
Raju Bhatnagar

Thank you, Raju Bhatnagar, for sharing the information. Also, I would like to know, as most IT companies keep their client information confidential, is it legal to mention the client-project name in CVs?

Most companies require employees to sign confidentiality agreements when they join a company. This agreement typically states that any non-public information should not be disclosed by the employee if it is considered company confidential.

Strictly speaking, mentioning a client's name or project description could be seen as a violation of this agreement. However, many companies do not object to client names being included in a CV, but individuals should be mindful of the potential consequences.

Some individuals opt to play it safe and avoid explicitly naming clients in their CVs, instead providing sufficient clues about the client (e.g., referring to "a Fortune 500 beverages company headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia" instead of naming Coca-Cola Company). A similar approach can be taken for projects, focusing on showcasing acquired skills, experience, and knowledge.

During the interview, candidates can discuss these matters more openly.

Regards,
Raju Bhatnagar