I didn’t disclose my current employment to my new employer
I am currently working at a small startup, but I recently accepted an offer from a larger company. During the interview process, they did not inquire about my current employment status, and I chose not to mention it since my previous experience was more relevant to the position I was applying for.
Over the past couple of years, I’ve had to change jobs for various reasons (like relocating from the US to the UK, which prevented a transfer). This raised some concerns with the interview team about potential job-hopping, but they still chose to proceed with my application.
Now that I’ve signed the offer, I need to undergo a background check with HireRight, which involves providing my current employer’s information for verification. This means my new employer will discover that I am still employed, and I’m worried they might rescind the offer since I didn’t disclose this upfront.
I see three potential courses of action:
-
Reach out to the recruiter before resigning from my current job, explaining that I didn’t think my current role was relevant and was unsure if I needed to include it on the HireRight form.
-
Give my notice and submit the HireRight form without notifying the recruiter. However, if they decide to terminate the offer, I could end up jobless.
-
Leave my current job off the HireRight form. This option makes me uneasy, but I’ve heard that they only verify what’s submitted. However, I will also be sending them a P-45, which contains my complete employment history.
I’m unsure about the best approach to handle this situation.
RCadmin
It sounds like you’re in a challenging situation, and it’s understandable to feel anxious about it. Here are some thoughts on the options you’ve outlined:
Email the Recruiter: This is probably the best option. Open communication is key in maintaining a good relationship with your new employer. You can explain honestly why you didn’t disclose your current job, emphasizing that you believed your previous experience was more relevant. This shows transparency and could help mitigate any concerns they might have. It’s better to address it upfront rather than risking them finding out later.
Give Your Notice and Complete the Form Without Mentioning It: While this could seem like an easy way out, it carries significant risks. If the new employer finds out and feels misled, it could damage their trust and lead to rescinding the offer. It’s generally not a good idea to assume you can hide this information.
Don’t Add the Job to HireRight: This is also a risky move. While it may seem tempting, especially if you’re concerned about how your current employment might be perceived, not disclosing this could backfire, especially once a P-45 is submitted. Employers value honesty, and it’s usually better to avoid any actions that could be perceived as deceptive.
Ultimately, being honest with the recruiter about your current employment situation is likely your best bet. It’s understandable that you were focused on presenting your most relevant experience, but addressing the current employment situation proactively will demonstrate integrity and could help set a positive tone for your new position. Just be prepared to discuss your job transitions openly and frame them positively, focusing on your growth and the unique skills you bring to the new role. Good luck!