I haven't had to look for a new job for a couple of years now, but a few years back when I was looking I did have to go through credit checks for some employers.
It is becoming more and more prevalent for employers to do credit checks, and yes, it could keep you from landing the job. I do a lot of research on economics and current events surrounding economics, and I see credit checks for employment happening more and more. However it is definitely on a company by company basis.
A couple reasons why they do it and it may keep you from landing the job:
1) If you are working in the financial industry and you yourself have bad credit, employers may think you are not so competent in your so called area of expertise
2) you may be distracted on the job due to constant money issues in your personal life
3) Lawsuit possibility – you make mistake for client, lawsuit filed, your credit report comes up and is used against company
Bottom line – it will keep you from landing some jobs, but not every job
AUD - 81, BEC - 74, 80, FAR - 82, REG - 81
Done!