In today's competitive job market, verifying employment history has become a critical step in the hiring process. This not only helps to validate the information provided by applicants but also gives employers a sense of the candidate's work ethic, skills, and cultural fit. But what does the verification process entail, and what are some examples of what this looks like? Let's dive into the world of employment verification and explore some common methodologies and examples.
At its core, employment verification involves confirming that an applicant has, indeed, held the positions they've listed on their resume or job application. This can be done in several ways, each with its own set of benefits and challenges. Employers typically use one or a combination of these methods to ensure they're making informed hiring decisions.
Most Common Methods for Verifying Employment
Before we look at specific examples, let's explore some of the most common methods used for employment verification.
- Phone verification: This involves contacting the former employer directly to confirm the applicant's dates of employment, job title, and sometimes their salary and job duties.
- Written verification: Some employers prefer written verification in the form of a reference letter or a completion of a prepared form, detailing the applicant's employment history, job performance, and other relevant information.
- Online platforms: There are numerous online platforms designed to streamline the employment verification process. These platforms typically involve a candidate providing their consent for their employment history to be shared and then allowing the prospective employer to access this information.
Phone Verification: A Closer Look
Phone verification is one of the most common methods due to its simplicity and immediacy. However, it's not without its challenges. Employers should be aware of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) guidelines, which restrict the information that can be shared over the phone.
For instance, an employer can confirm dates of employment, job title, and salary, but they cannot provide performance reviews or discuss skills and abilities without written consent. Here's an example of what a typical phone verification might sound like:
Employer (E): Hello, this is John from XYZ Company. I'm calling to verify the employment of Jane Doe. Could you please confirm her dates of employment with our company? Former Employer (FE): Yes, Jane Doe worked for us from January 2015 to December 2020. Her job title was Marketing Manager.
Online Platforms: Efficiency and Security
Online platforms like The Work Number, Equifax Workforce Solutions, and GoodHire offer secure, efficient ways to verify employment. They allow candidates to manage their employment history and give prospective employers immediate access to confirmed information. Here's an example of how the process works:
- The candidate provides their unique identifier (like an employer-supplied code) to the prospective employer.
- The employer enters the candidate's information into the platform's system.
- The platform cross-references the data and, if the candidate has granted permission, provides immediate access to verified employment history.
Industries with Special Considerations
While these methods are generally applicable across most industries, some professions have additional considerations. For instance, healthcare jobs often require background checks and verification of licenses and certifications. Here's an example of what employment verification might look like in this sector:
Healthcare: Beyond the Basics
When verifying employment in healthcare, aside from the usual checks, employers also need to confirm that the candidate's professional credentials and licenses are current and valid. This might involve contacting state licensing boards or professional associations, such as the American Medical Association or the American Nurses Association. Employers may also need to perform criminal background checks, given the sensitive nature of healthcare work.
As with any industry, it's crucial to stay up-to-date with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) guidelines and any state-specific laws regarding background checks and employment verification.
Employment verification is a vital part of the hiring process, helping to ensure that candidates have the experience and skills they claim. Whether you're using phone verification, written verification, online platforms, or a combination, understanding the process and the laws surrounding it is essential for making informed hiring decisions. So, the next time you're wondering how to verify employment, remember these examples and the importance of thorough yet compliant screening.