Tips for checking a job applicant before offering employment:

• Always have a legitimate reason business reason for the information you seek about job applicants.

• Know what the law prohibits.

• Always check references and previous employers.

• Verify any education, degrees, licenses or professional certifications the applicant claims to have.

• Examine driving history if job requires use of vehicle.

• Check criminal record.

• Carefully word interview questions: always focus on the applicant's ability to do the job.

• Schedule pre-employment physicals AFTER conditional offer of employment. Uncovered disabilities cannot be used to void the hiring unless they prevent the person from doing the job.

• Have the applicant sign an authorization before checking his/her credit history.

• Confirm that the applicant is giving a correct Social Security number and address.

• Silence is GOLDEN. Do not ever speak about the investigation or answer anything that could harm your case.

• Find out the simple and obvious questions that you can ask.