Verification of prior employment is a standard component of many background screenings. This process typically involves contacting companies listed on an applicant’s resume or application to confirm dates of employment, job title, and sometimes, job performance. For example, a prospective employer might inquire about an applicant’s attendance record or reason for leaving a previous role.
Confirming employment history serves several crucial functions. It helps employers mitigate the risk of negligent hiring by verifying the accuracy of information provided by applicants. This verification process helps establish a candidate’s work history and can contribute to a more complete picture of their qualifications and experience. Thorough background checks, including employment verification, have become increasingly common over the past few decades as employers seek to make more informed hiring decisions.