Do Seasonal Retail Jobs Usually Involve a Background Check?

The short answer – yes.

 

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted a number of industries and retail was one of them.

In late spring, we saw major retailers close their doors to customers as physical distancing rules came into effect.

 

While some retail stores had to shift their business online, others saw an unprecedented rise in sales. These include grocery stores, pharmacies, and value stores.

 

Grocers stores such as Walmart Canada, Loblaws, and Sobeys saw an increase in demand and had to make quick hiring decisions to ensure that they were able to meet the rising demand.

 

Now, as other retailers gradually open their doors to the public and prepare for the holiday season – another surge in demand is expected.

 

This means more seasonal hiring…

 

Why do Employers Perform Background Checks for Seasonal Employees?

 

One of the biggest challenges with seasonal hiring, when it comes to retail, is that the job volume is high, and managers typically do not have a lot of time on their hands. Additionally, a large retailer may also need to hire in multiple locations at the same time.

 

As the applications volume is also quite significant, it is not easy for hiring managers to verify all the information on their own. This is the reason they leverage the services of a background check provider.

 

Additionally, the cost of a bad hire is a lot when it comes to retail. Just the financial cost of a bad hire can go up to $15,000.

 

Then there are other costs that can’t be measured as easily.

 

For instance, a bad hire can be the reason for bad customer experience for a large number of customers. Imagine the effect this can have on the brand’s reputation! Especially in the age of social media.

 

There are other issues such as theft, workplace violence, and sexual harassment as well.

 

This is why employers are often keen to perform background checks even if they are hiring seasonal employees.

 

At What Stage am I Required to Undergo a Background Check?

 

This may vary from company to company.

 

Though, usually, they would require you to provide references, and/or conduct additional checks, either at the application stage or before they make you an offer.

 

What Types of Background Checks Will Be There?

 

A reference check is usually done to ensure that you have provided accurate information about your past employers and to get a better idea of what it is like to work with you.

 

Though, some organizations, go beyond standard reference checks and request consent for a criminal background check or driver’s abstract (if you’d be required to drive company vehicles).

Some employers may even request you to provide a police check report before making you an offer. This is where we can help.

 

Triton Canada helps you obtain your police check reports within one hour (and often sooner). The best part? You don’t have to go to the police station, and you can do this securely from the comfort of your home!

 

To learn more about our background check solutions call us on 1-844-874-8667 or visit www.tritoncanada.ca.