Conducting effective and legally safe background and reference checks

Abstract

Cites that rapid changes in legislation have put special importance on the careful and effective performance of reference checking. Gives some brief statistics from a survey into this subject. Discusses negligent hiring lawsuits and the requirements for such a valid claim. Provides a list of documents which would help employers defend such a claim. Covers the background check and the type of investigation which may be undertaken before looking at the reference check including how to make contact, what to ask for in references, the documentation of such checks, and alternatives to inhouse checking.

Citation

Edwards, R.M. and Kleiner, B.H. (2002), "Conducting effective and legally safe background and reference checks", Managerial Law, Vol. 44 No. 1/2, pp. 136-150. https://doi.org/10.1108/03090550210770722