Facing Career Hurdles After a Failed Background Check: How Can I Move Forward?

Dear Sir, I made a huge mistake in my life. Here I will share my story. I have worked in a company for 4 years. I resigned from my job due to personal illness and family constraints. After I submitted my resignation, the company only provided an experience letter. This was my first company, so I wasn't aware of the appointment letter and relieving letter.

After 5 months, I was hired by another MNC company. They requested the appointment letter and relieving letter, but all I had was the experience letter at that time. Due to the lockdown situation, I couldn't visit my previous company to obtain the required letters. Consequently, I created fake certificates and submitted them to my new employer.

A week later, they sent me an offer letter that mentioned a Background Verification (BGV) check. I assumed the BGV check would only confirm my employment dates, so I signed the offer letter and sent it back. I commenced working for the new company in an online Work From Home (WFH) setup. One day, a third party contacted me to upload documents for the BGV check. I submitted the documents and provided the contact details of my previous employer, still confident that they would only verify my employment period.

Shortly after, the HR from my new company called me and informed me that my BGV had failed due to the forged certificates. They requested me to submit a resignation due to personal reasons, which I did. The same day, the HR from my previous company called to inform me that they intended to file a police case against me for creating forged certificates. I pleaded with them not to proceed with legal action. They asked me to come to the company the next day. During the meeting, I confessed to forging the certificates. After a two-hour discussion, they requested an apology letter, which I provided. Eventually, they accepted my apology. However, when I requested the relieving letter and appointment letter, they declined to provide them.

It has been two months since then. Three days ago, I emailed my previous employer to request the necessary documents for future employment. I also tried calling them, but received no response. I am also attempting to obtain a relieving letter from my new MNC company where I resigned due to the failed background verification.

I would appreciate guidance on how to obtain the documents needed and how to proceed with my career.

In this situation, it is crucial to handle the aftermath of the failed background verification check with care and transparency. Here are some practical steps you can take to address the issue and move forward:

1. Contact Your Previous Employer: Persist in your efforts to reach out to your previous employer via email and phone calls. Clearly explain your need for the relieving letter and appointment letter. Be honest and apologetic in your communication.

2. Visit Your Previous Employer: If possible, consider visiting your previous employer in person to discuss the matter face-to-face. Express your regret for the mistake and emphasize your willingness to rectify the situation.

3. Seek Legal Advice: Given the seriousness of the situation involving forged certificates and potential legal implications, it may be advisable to consult with a legal professional. They can provide guidance on how to navigate the issue and protect your rights.

4. Cooperate with Authorities: If your previous employer decides to pursue legal action, it is essential to cooperate fully with the authorities and follow legal procedures. Admitting fault and showing remorse can sometimes mitigate the consequences.

5. Explain the Situation to Your New Employer: Be transparent with your current employer about the circumstances surrounding the failed background verification. Provide them with updates on your efforts to rectify the situation and obtain the necessary documents.

6. Focus on Rebuilding Trust: Moving forward, focus on rebuilding trust with your employers by demonstrating honesty, integrity, and a commitment to ethical conduct. Consider additional training or workshops on professional ethics to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Remember that honesty and accountability are key in resolving such situations. By taking proactive steps to address the issue and showing genuine remorse, you can work towards resolving the matter and rebuilding your professional reputation.