Obtaining employee background information

You have more resources than you realize. A former employer is bound by law to reveal only basic information such as dates of employment and job title. As a prospective employer, you are not so bound, and can get relatively creative in your research.

Consider this probative question: Is the former employee is eligible for rehire? Obvious hesitancy in answering will alert you to a possible problem.

Confirm educational claims on the candidate's resume. Some applicants are prone to academic embellishment. Be alert to it. Contact the college and university listed to confirm any claims.

Be sure you have the list of fair questions. The local office of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission can provide information. They can also tell you about any such agencies in your state.