Worried About Background Checks? How Missing a Relieving Letter Might Affect Your Job Offer

Before starting my career as a Software Engineer, I worked for a telecom company in a non-technical role. Due to some reasons related to the job profile, I began seeking new opportunities and received an offer from an IT company. I resigned from my current position after 2 months, and instead of serving the notice period, I paid in cash. I did not receive my relieving letter from that employer.

At the beginning of my career, I was unaware of the importance of a relieving letter. The new employer did not require the relieving letter as I was starting as a fresher. After transitioning to the IT industry, I switched jobs three times, and none of the subsequent employers requested the relieving letter from that company.

Now, I have received an offer from an MNC. Do I need to mention my previous employment at the old company in my work history? I do not possess the relieving letter. Could this pose an issue during the Background Verification process?

In India, background verification processes typically involve checking an employee's work history, including previous employment details. While not having a relieving letter from a previous employer can raise concerns during background verification, there are steps you can take to address this situation:

Guidance for Addressing the Relieving Letter Issue:

- Be Transparent: It's crucial to be transparent about your work history during the hiring process. Disclose your employment with the telecom company, even if you don't have the relieving letter.

- Explain the Circumstances: During the interview or when asked about the relieving letter, explain the circumstances that led to your departure without obtaining it. Mention that you were a fresher when you joined the IT company and the subsequent employers did not request this document.

- Alternative Documentation: If possible, try to provide alternative documentation from the telecom company, such as an experience letter, appointment letter, or any other proof of employment to substantiate your claim.

- Contact the Previous Employer: Reach out to the HR department or your previous manager at the telecom company to inquire about the possibility of obtaining a duplicate copy of the relieving letter. Explain your situation and the need for this document.

- Reference Check: If the new employer conducts reference checks, inform them about the situation beforehand. Provide any supporting documents you have and explain the steps you have taken to address the issue.

- Legal Considerations: While it's not a legal requirement to have a relieving letter, it is a standard practice in India. However, not having one should not automatically disqualify you, especially if you can provide other evidence of your employment.

- Prepare for Questions: Be prepared to answer questions during the background verification process regarding your employment at the telecom company. Stay honest and consistent in your responses.

By being proactive, transparent, and prepared to address the issue, you can navigate the background verification process effectively even without a relieving letter from your previous employment.