Companies conduct a Previous Employer Check to verify a candidate’s past work history, performance, behavior, and reason for leaving. This helps employers ensure that they’re hiring someone trustworthy and experienced.
Here’s how the process usually works:
Candidate Consent: First, the company takes written consent from the candidate to contact previous employers. This is important for legal and privacy reasons.
Contacting Former Employers: HR professionals or background verification teams will reach out to the listed employers—usually via phone or email. They may speak to managers, HR representatives, or team leads.
Verification Points: The check typically includes:
Job title and tenure
Responsibilities handled
Behavior and conduct at work
Reason for leaving
Eligibility for rehire (in some cases)
Cross-Referencing Details: Employers compare this information with what was shared in the resume or interview. Any major discrepancies might raise red flags.
Third-Party Services: Many companies today use background verification platforms to speed up the process and ensure accuracy. Services like Force Track provide reliable employment verification solutions, making it easier for businesses to carry out thorough background checks.
A proper Previous Employer Check not only protects a company from bad hires but also helps maintain workplace integrity and safety.