Do HR Managers Check with Former Employers Before Making Offers of Employment? What Would Happen if the Old Boss Gave Negative Feedback Even Though There Were No Issues at Work?

Sometimes, yes. Sometimes, no. Often, when a prospective employer conducts background checks that include gathering feedback from a candidate's former employers, a mix of approaches and outcomes arises. Sometimes, a negative review can spell the end of a job offer, while sometimes, a neutral review with hints of dissatisfaction can still lead to employment. Employers do not directly provide bad reviews; instead, they offer neutral reviews with subtle negative undertones that can be damaging.

Background Checks: A Common Practice

Background checks that include listening to past bosses are indeed a common practice. While many companies directly ask for feedback, some opt for external agency checks. These agencies might write formal emails, send letters, or make personal visits to former employers to gather information. In some cases, former employers might respond, while in others, they might not.

When feedback is received, positive or neutral, it usually does not pose an issue. However, if a negative review is given, the agencies will verify the information by checking with mutual acquaintances, initial employers, and other sources. These findings are then forwarded to the prospective employer, who must decide on the final outcome.

Interpreting Negative Feedback

When negative feedback is received, the prospective employer carefully evaluates the situation. If the negative remarks are minor and considered biased, the candidate is given the benefit of the doubt. If the minor issues are the only ones raised, and the candidate is exceptionally well-regarded, the employer might choose to extend an offer, contingent on the candidate’s performance during a probationary period.

However, the question arises: if negative feedback is often ignored, why conduct any background check at all? The primary reasons are to ensure the candidate has not engaged in any fraudulent activities and to assess whether they possess a negative mindset that could impact future job performance.

The Role of Past Employers

Most often, past employers are not neutral. They might harbor feelings of resentment or want to sabotage your new position to feel better about their own life. After all, your ex-boss has no reason to want you to succeed and every incentive to try and undermine your new role.

The position of the new employer is delicate. They must balance between taking the negative feedback at face value and understanding that it may be biased. Employers aim to make an objective judgment, considering the candidate’s overall qualifications and the nature of the issues raised.

Conclusion

While negative feedback from a former employer can be damaging and may lead to the rejection of a job offer, it is not always a definitive sign of poor performance. Employers use a variety of methods to verify and interpret this feedback, considering both the evaluated issues and the potential bias in the information. The nature of the feedback and the candidate's overall qualifications play a crucial role in the final decision.