Obtain Your Work History: A Guide to Reclaiming Your Professional Past
Are you looking to update your resume or apply for a new job? If so, you’ll need to have your work history on hand. But what if you’ve lost track of some of your old jobs or you don’t have access to your personnel files? Don’t worry – there are several ways to obtain your work history.
Source www.myperfectresume.com
# How Can I Find My Employment History?
## 1. Contact Your Former Employers
One of the best ways to obtain your work history is to reach out to your former employers. Many companies keep employee records for several years, so they may be able to provide you with a copy of your W-2s, pay stubs, or other documents that list your job titles, dates of employment, and earnings.
## 2. Request a Social Security Earnings Statement
The Social Security Administration (SSA) maintains a record of your earnings throughout your working life. You can request a copy of your Social Security Earnings Statement online or by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213.
## 3. Check Your Credit Report
Your credit report may also include information about your work history, such as the names of your employers and the dates you worked for them. You can obtain a free copy of your credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
## 4. Search Your Tax Returns
Your tax returns can also provide you with information about your work history. Your W-2s, which are included with your tax returns, will list the names of your employers, the dates you worked for them, and your earnings for the year.
## 5. Use an Online Job Search Engine
There are several online job search engines that allow you to search for jobs by company name or job title. Once you find a job that you’re interested in, you can often click on the company’s name to learn more about the company and its employees. This information may include the names of former employees, their job titles, and the dates they worked for the company.
## 6. Network with Former Colleagues
If you’ve lost touch with your former colleagues, now is a great time to reconnect. Reach out to them on LinkedIn or other social media platforms and ask them if they can help you obtain your work history.
## 7. Contact a Professional Resume Writer
If you’re having trouble obtaining your work history on your own, you may want to consider hiring a professional resume writer. Resume writers can help you gather your work history, write a professional resume, and prepare for job interviews.
## Conclusion
Obtaining your work history doesn’t have to be difficult. By following these steps, you can quickly and easily get the information you need. Once you have your work history, you can update your resume, apply for new jobs, or simply keep track of your professional experience.
## Comparison Table: How to Obtain Your Work History
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Contact former employers | Can provide detailed information about your job history | May not be able to provide information for all of your past jobs |
| Request a Social Security Earnings Statement | Provides a comprehensive record of your earnings | May not include information about your job titles or dates of employment |
| Check your credit report | May include information about your work history | May not include complete or accurate information |
| Search your tax returns | Provides information about your earnings and employers | May not include information about your job titles or dates of employment |
| Use an online job search engine | Can provide information about former employees and their job histories | May not be able to provide complete or accurate information |
| Network with former colleagues | Can provide firsthand information about your work history | May not be able to provide information for all of your past jobs |
| Contact a professional resume writer | Can help you gather your work history, write a professional resume, and prepare for job interviews | Can be expensive |
## Other Articles You May Be Interested In
- How to Write a Resume
- How to Find a Job
- How to Negotiate a Salary
FAQ about How to Obtain Your Work History
How can I get a copy of my work history?
Answer: You can request a copy of your work history from your current or former employers. They may provide it in the form of a letter, a document, or an online portal.
What information is typically included in a work history?
Answer: A work history usually includes the following information:
- Company name and address
- Employment dates
- Job title and responsibilities
- Salary and benefits
How long does it take to receive a copy of my work history?
Answer: The time frame for receiving your work history varies depending on the employer. It can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.
What if my former employer is no longer in business?
Answer: If your former employer is no longer in business, you may be able to obtain your work history from the state unemployment agency or the Social Security Administration.
What if I have lost my copy of my work history?
Answer: If you have lost your copy of your work history, you can request a new one from your current or former employers. They may charge a small fee for this service.
Can I request a work history from an employer I worked for over 10 years ago?
Answer: Yes, you can request a work history from an employer you worked for over 10 years ago. However, they may not have a record of your employment if it was that long ago.
Is there a fee to obtain my work history?
Answer: Some employers may charge a small fee to provide you with a copy of your work history. The fee will vary depending on the employer.
What is a certified work history?
Answer: A certified work history is a document that has been verified by your employer and includes your signature. It is typically used for legal or financial purposes.
How can I obtain a certified work history?
Answer: You can request a certified work history from your current or former employers. They may charge a small fee for this service.
