How to Justify a Negative Credit Report to an Employer

A negative credit report can affect more than just your personal financial portfolio. It can also cost you a job opportunity, particularly if your job of choice places a high value on fiscal responsibility. However, because your credit report is personal in nature, there may be ways in which you can explain your situation and convince a potential employer to take a chance on you regardless of your financial history.

Instructions

1

Read over your credit report before your sit-down with an employer. It is important to be educated about negative items so that you can prepare an explanation. Moreover, you don't want to appear uneducated about your credit history or become visibly surprised during a meeting with your employer about your credit report. This may not only negate any explanation you give about your credit, but your ignorance may mar your image professionally.

2

Explain the circumstances surrounding the negative items to your employer. Be honest and forthcoming so that he understands that you are not wildly irresponsible with your finances at this point in your life, even if you once were. If you want to seem upfront, explain each item one at a time. Not only will your explanations help put your employer at ease, but they will also make it look as though you cared enough to take the time to research each item for your employer.

3

Provide your employer with your plans for cleaning up your credit report. In most instances, as long as you are taking steps to be more fiscally responsible and get on the road to better credit, your employer will feel more confident in you, despite the negative marks against your credit. You don't have to be overly specific; just giving some key details on your plans should suffice.

4

Reinforce your ability to do your job effectively. Stress to your employer your job skills and ability to carry on with your responsibilities, regardless of your personal financial situation. Doing so takes the focus off your credit issues and puts it back on your value as an employee.