Yes, Gamestop does run background checks. If you are applying for a job with them, you should expect that they will run a background check on you. This does not mean that they automatically turn down everyone with a felony or misdemeanor. Keep reading to find out more about the company and their hiring process.
In this article, we will share information about these topics:
- What is Gamestop?
- What will Gamestop see on my background check? What do I do if I have a felony or misdemeanor?
- How can I succeed in a Gamestop interview?
About Gamestop
Gamestop is a video game and electronics store. It sells video games, gaming accessories like controllers and headsets, and various electronics. Gamestop can be found throughout the US and internationally. It has locations in 13 other countries.
Working in a Gamestop store could be a dream come true for someone who loves video games. If you are a video game fan or are knowledgeable about gaming and electronics, consider applying to Gamestop. Some of their entry-level jobs include positions as sales and service associates.
As a sales associate, you will need to:
- Greet customers, answer their questions, and help them find products
- Take phone calls
- Organize merchandise
- Clean the store
- Operate a cash register
If you have experience in retail or feel comfortable performing the above tasks, Gamestop could be a good fit for you. Visit their site to see open positions and keep reading below to find out more about how to apply for a job with the company.
Gamestop Background Check
Gamestop runs a background check on everyone applying to work at their stores. This background check will include information about any pending charges, felonies, incarcerations, or misdemeanors on your record. They will also require you to take a drug test. Gamestop does not state on their site that they have a policy against hiring felons. This means that they will judge applicants on an individual basis. Be aware that they do list felonies as grounds for firing employees. This means that if you are hired, you can be fired for committing a felony while working for Gamestop.
The application process at Gamestop begins with their job listing site. Once you have submitted your application, you may be asked for an interview. A background check will be performed after you have interviewed with the company. If you live live somewhere that has “banned the box” on job applications, Gamestop shouldn’t ask you about your criminal record before you are interviewed. The states that have “banned the box” are:
- California
- Connecticut
- Hawaii
- Illinois
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- New Jersey
- Oregon
- Rhode Island
- Vermont
If the job application form does ask you about felony convictions, read it carefully! It might only ask about recent convictions. In this case, you don’t have to mention any felonies earlier than the application asks about. Usually, this time limit is somewhere between 5 and 10 years.
Eleven states have passed laws that only allow background checks to go back seven years. In some of these states, this time limit depends on the amount of money you will make at a job. For a job at Gamestop, the following states only allow the past seven years to show up on a background check:
- California
- Colorado
- Kansas
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Montana
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New York
- Texas
- Washington
In all states in the US, Gamestop has to get your consent before they run a background check. They might ask for your consent during your interview or after your interview. They can also make you a job offer contingent on a background check. This means that you will get the job only after the background check results come in.
If you refuse a background check, Gamestop can refuse to hire you. It’s a good idea to consent to the background check. It proves that you are honest and gives you the opportunity to shape how your interviewer sees you. By being upfront about your criminal record, you can show them that you are focusing on a positive future instead of dwelling on a negative past.
Also remember that it is illegal for Gamestop to discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. This means that they cannot treat you differently from someone else with the same criminal record because of your race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
You can see your own criminal record before Gamestop does by using an official criminal background check website. Here is a list of these websites, organized by state. The cost of a background check is different depending on your state. The cost of a background check varies by state, but is usually not more than $20. Although the cost might be off-putting, it is a good investment to make before you start applying for jobs. It is valuable for you to know exactly how your record appears to employers.
Use these websites to check for any incorrect information before you apply. Make sure that all of your information is up-to-date. If you find any issues with your record, take the steps to fix them. The process for fixing mistakes on your criminal record varies by state. A quick google search will tell you more about how to correct your criminal record in your specific area. You could be asked to submit a form online, have your fingerprints taken, or file a motion for a judge to make the correction.
You might also be able to get an arrest or conviction expunged from your record. If you get an expungement, the conviction will “disappear.” It will not show up on a background check. You do not have to tell your employer about it. States that currently support expungement are:
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Florida
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Kentucky
- Missouri
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Washington
If you live in one of these states, this website has more information about the process.
If you make changes to your record, know what the changes are. Get official documents that prove that the changes are legitimate. If someone at Gamestop asks about changes or discrepancies on your record, you can show them these documents and explain that you have an updated record.
How can I succeed in a Gamestop interview?
Remember that honesty is important. If you are asked about a felony or misdemeanor during an interview, do not lie about it. While a felony may be a barrier to employment, being upfront about it shows that you are ethical, transparent, and accountable. These qualities are all listed as key parts of Gamestop’s culture. If you are asked about your record, take the opportunity to quickly explain it. Then emphasize how much you want to work hard and move on from your past mistakes. Gamestop doesn’t state an official stance on hiring felons. This means that a good interview could land you a job at the company.
In order to showcase your best qualities and what you would bring to Gamestop, make sure to prepare for your interview. While you are preparing, think about:
- What makes you a good candidate for this job?
- Are you knowledgeable about video games and electronics?
- Have you ever had a similar job? What relevant experience will help you do well at Gamestop?
- Why should Gamestop choose you instead of another applicant?
Showing enthusiasm and interest can help you succeed in an interview. To show your professionalism, arrive early to your interview, dress formally, and prepare a copy of your resume.
Many colleges offer free information about resumes, such as these tips from the University of Georgia. There are also many resources online. Try out this database of example resumes from Monster.com. Some websites offer templates that you can fill out with your information. For example, resume.com and Google docs have free templates. You can also visit the H.I.R.E. Network’s website for more state-specific guides and resources to help you prepare. Use these resources to help you put your best foot forward!
After your interview, send an email to thank your interviewer. If you discussed your criminal record during your interview, you can use this email to tell them about the Work Opportunity Tax Credit and the Federal Bonding Program. These are federal programs that give benefits and support to employers who hire felons.
Gamestop is a popular company, and a job with them would be fast-paced and engaging. If you can understand how a background check will be used in your application process, prepare to tell your story, and present yourself in a professional and optimistic way, and a job with Gamestop could be in your future!
