Background Screen on Potential Job Offer

[J. Taylor]

I recently interviewed for a position at a biotech/pharma. I've been notified to do background screen from the company, does this mean that I have a high chance in receiving an offer? How long does this whole process generally take before they make a final decision, assuming that they may be doing background screening on other candidates as well?

[Dave Jensen]

Generally, a company only reference checks the final candidate -- perhaps two candidates if there is some big decision between the two. I would think you have a great chance of receiving an offer if you have a solid background and no "skeletons in the closet," as they say!

Dave

[J. Taylor]

Generally, a company only reference checks the final candidate -- perhaps two candidates if there is some big decision between the two. I would think you have a great chance of receiving an offer if you have a solid background and no "skeletons in the closet," as they say!

Dave

Thank you Dave for your reply, really appreciate it. The background check has been ongoing for more than a week now, so hopefully I will be able to hear back from them soon!

[M.W.S.]

I just started my first position in the life sciences industry after an academic postdoc about six months ago, so I am by no means an expert. With that said, I only had background checks requested after receiving an offer, but typically before accepting an offer. I think they took between one and two weeks each. I suspect you are the final candidate (or at least in the top two or three). Good luck!

[Bright B.]

Generally, a company only reference checks the final candidate -- perhaps two candidates if there is some big decision between the two. I would think you have a great chance of receiving an offer if you have a solid background and no "skeletons in the closet," as they say!

Dave

Thank you Dave for your reply, really appreciate it. The background check has been ongoing for more than a week now, so hopefully I will be able to hear back from them soon!

J Taylor, I'm going through the same thing right now. I had my interview last Friday and sent in my background paperwork Monday and they call a couple of my references already. I can second Dave that as long as there is no skeleton in the closet, you will get an offer. This is my second job after grad school. For me I'm moving from 1st job to second one for better location, salary and environment.

[J. Taylor]

Generally, a company only reference checks the final candidate -- perhaps two candidates if there is some big decision between the two. I would think you have a great chance of receiving an offer if you have a solid background and no "skeletons in the closet," as they say!

Dave

Thank you Dave for your reply, really appreciate it. The background check has been ongoing for more than a week now, so hopefully I will be able to hear back from them soon!

J Taylor, I'm going through the same thing right now. I had my interview last Friday and sent in my background paperwork Monday and they call a couple of my references already. I can second Dave that as long as there is no skeleton in the closet, you will get an offer. This is my second job after grad school. For me I'm moving from 1st job to second one for better location, salary and environment.

Thank you for your reply Bright B. It is very helpful!

[Bright B.]

J Taylor did you hear back from the company?
I received a call from the manager this week that they are going to offer me the job. That I should expect the offer in the mail by Friday. Do companies still send offer letter via snail mail? Interesting!!!!