When employers have a list of candidates all vying for the same job, they want to be sure they choose the most qualified candidate available. In times like these, when the unemployment rate is higher than usual, employers can have a large number of applicants with the education and experience required, making it even harder to choose the right one. However, it is important to remember that even though the resume looks flawless, the candidate might not be telling the whole truth. That’s why it is important to check the candidate’s work history.
Access an Employment History Verification Website
There are dozens of online companies employers can hire to verify a potential employee’s work history. To check, most employers will simply will need the candidate’s name and any maiden or alternative last names that were used. They will also need the social security number. In addition, employers will need prospects' current contact information because usually the company will contact them to inform them that verification is being performed. The prices for these checks can range anywhere from $14 to $59.95. Some companies also provide monthly packages which give individuals a discount if they perform various work history checks each month.
Set up an Account With the Chosen Background Checking Company
Employers will need to provide information about the company as well as personal contact information. They will also be required to provide billing and credit card information so it’s important to have all the documentation handy. Provide an accurate e-mail address, because usually employers will receive a confirmation e-mail about the services requested. Once the verification process is complete, individuals will receive an e-mail with all of the requested information which they can save and print for their records.
Call the Work History References on the Application or Resume
If employers don’t want to spend money on a company to undergo the verification process for candidates, they can do it themselves, but it takes longer. They will need to call all the references listed. Before calling, they can determine if it is a valid reference by first looking at the phone number given, then checking phone numbers for the company the reference works for to determine if the number is legitimate. If the reference listed works for a company in California but the number listed is a New York number, then most likely it isn’t valid. Still, it doesn’t hurt to check anyway. If employers can’t reach the reference at the number listed, call the company the reference works for to see if they are still working there.
Contact Previous Employers to Check Backgrounds
Take a look at the application, and start with the applicant’s previous employer. This application review process also takes longer because normally the company won’t respond immediately. It could take them a week or even longer for them to respond with the requested information. When individuals call the company and are not able to speak with the applicant’s former boss, they can speak directly with the Human Resources manager. They will at least be able to verify the applicant’s previous role and time served with the company. However, individuals will also need to speak with their former boss to find out more detailed information about the applicant.
Hire Professional Background Screeners
If employers just don’t have time to undergo the entire verification process, they can hire a background check agency to do all the legwork for them. The agency will take the resume or application and call all of the references and previous employers. They will provide them with a detailed report including all of this information. To find a background check agency, individuals can check out the website for the National Association of Professional Background Screeners.
It’s important to keep in mind the information that is legally allowed in a background report. The Privacy Rights Clearinghouse provides a fact sheet about what is and what isn’t allowed. This sheet is geared towards potential employees, but the information is relevant to employers as well.
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