I fundamentally disagree with backdoor reference checks…
Yet, today I received another “confidential” backdoor reference check - making that two requests in the last 3-weeks.
For those of you who have worked with me know that I hardly ever post here - but after today I felt compelled to address a growing concern in this challenging labor market.
As HR leaders, we represent our employers and their obligations when it comes to professional background screens (ex: sterling, Checkr, etc) and employment verifications (ex: mortgage companies, etc), but professional reference checks (the interview process) are often directed to former colleagues and there is hardly any governance around them.
BG screens and employment verifications require consent from the candidate or the employee before a screen is performed - but professional reference checks have historically been performed without the candidates consent, especially at the leadership level. Sadly this is still very much in practice today.
Last week I received a “confidential” backdoor reference request from a professional service provider about a former Executive (VP+) colleague of mine. They were representing their client about a leadership role this person was interviewing for. When I contacted the former colleague they were shocked that it was occurring without their consent - and apparently 18 or more of their former colleagues were contacted by this firm for feedback as well.
Today I received another request about a former Executive colleague - and it too was a “confidential” backdoor reference check.
In my capacity as an HR professional, I’ve been responsible for the privacy and confidentially of employee data for my entire career, at every company I’ve worked for. I am unwavering in my respect for privacy - and today I am letting you all know that will never change.
To my former candidates and colleagues: If I’ve interviewed you, worked side by side with you, reported to you, or supported you at any of my prior employers - I will never provide any detail about your candidacy, your employment, your compensation, your performance, your health, or your reasons for leaving unless you provide me consent to do so - period.
#backgroundchecks #backgroundscreening #backdoor #backdoorreferences #hrcommunity #hris #hroperations
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