How to Check Someone's Work History
Most employers will verify a potential employee's work history before offering him a position with their company. Checking someone's work history ensures that the applicant has the skills and qualifications to perform the job.
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Things You'll Need
- Applicant's resume or application
- Letters of recommendation
- Contact information for applicant's former employers
- Applicant's Social Security number
- Credit card
Instructions
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Checking Someone's Work History
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Call the references on the resume or application. Most applications have a section for applicants to disclose names and contact numbers for references. You can also ask the applicant to submit a list of references, including contact information. Before calling, check if it is a valid reference by looking up the applicant's former company online and comparing phone numbers. The area code should be the same and most companies have the same prefix number (the first three numbers). If you are unable to reach the reference listed, call the human resources department of the company and ask them if the applicant ever worked there, and if so, how long. For additional information, call the applicant's former boss and ask about details of the applicant's work. However, be aware that not all companies are willing to provide detailed information other than a simple verification of employment.
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Access an online employment verification database. There are many online companies such as abso.com and employeescreen.com that will perform an employment check for you. You will need to provide the applicant's name and Social Security number. As of October 2009, the rates these company's charge range from $20 to $60.
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Set up an account with these background check companies if you plan to perform frequent background checks; you will generally receive a discount for signing up for a package. You will need to provide general answers about your company and contact information. You will be required to pay by credit card and provide billing information. Give the company an accurate e-mail address as the information requested will likely be provided by e-mail. Once you have given the required information and payment, the background check will be performed and results will be e-mailed to you.
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Tips & Warnings
The federal Fair Credit Reporting Act has laws regarding what can be obtained in an employment background screening. These include civil judgments and arrest records after seven years, bankruptcies after ten years, and accounts placed in collection after seven years.
