Most accepted and accurate criminal background check:
A social media background check reflects who you are based on your online behaviour.
Combine the checks you need in one convenient package:
Obtain criminal background checks on individuals including enhanced background checks.
Obtain employment background check verifications on individuals including enhanced employment background checks.
Verify a candidates education history and credentials.
Obtain Transunion credit checks on individuals including ID reports and ID verifications.
We perform comprehensive reference checks on your candidates customized to the information you want to learn.
You can obtain driving record abstracts on your candidates and learn information like:
Obtain social media checks on individuals that:
Comprehensive solutions designed for staffing agencies.
Obtain pre-employment screening bundles and save!
You got the job offer. Then your employer says, “We just need to complete a background check.”
If this is your first job or your first background check, you may be wondering what that actually means. What will they check? What information can they see? And do you need to get a criminal record check yourself?
A background check for employment helps an employer verify information relevant to the position. Depending on the job, this could include a criminal record check, employment or education verification, reference checks, a driver’s abstract or other role-specific screening.
Here’s what you should know before getting started.
What Background Checks Do Employers Do Before Hiring?
There is no single background check that every employer uses. The screening you are asked to complete will depend on the employer, position, and responsibilities of the job.
Common pre-employment background checks include:
That is why you should find out exactly which background check your employer requires before ordering one yourself.
What Does a Criminal Record Check Show an Employer?
A criminal record check is one of the backgrounds checks you may be asked to complete before starting a new job.
However, a criminal record check does not mean an employer gets unrestricted access to your entire history. The information provided depends on the type of check being completed.
If your employer asks you to obtain a criminal record check yourself, follow their instructions carefully. Different jobs may require different types of checks, and ordering the wrong one could mean having to complete the process again.
Is a Criminal Record Check the Same as a Vulnerable Sector Check?
No. A criminal record check and vulnerable sector check are different types of screening.
A vulnerable sector check (VSC) is intended for certain positions of trust or authority involving vulnerable people. You may encounter this requirement for some jobs or volunteer positions involving children or other vulnerable populations.
If an employer specifically requests a vulnerable sector check, do not assume that a standard criminal record check will meet their requirements.
What Else Can an Employer Check Before Hiring You?
Depending on the position, an employment background check may include more than criminal record screening.
Employment and Education Verification
An employer may verify information on your résumé or application, including previous employment, education or professional credentials.
If you are applying for your first job, having little or no employment history is not automatically a problem. Provide accurate information and follow the employer’s instructions.
Reference Checks
Employers may contact the references you provide to learn more about your previous experience, skills or suitability for a position.
Make sure your references’ contact information is current and let them know they may be contacted.
Driver’s Abstract
If driving is part of the job, an employer may request a driver’s abstract or another driving-related record.
This could apply to positions in delivery, transportation, field services, or other jobs where driving is a regular responsibility.
Credit Checks
Some employers may request a credit check for certain positions where financial information is relevant to the responsibilities of the role.
A credit check is not automatically included in every employment background check.
What Are Employers Looking for in a Background Check?
Employers generally use background screening to verify information relevant to their hiring decision and the responsibilities of the position.
Depending on the job, they may use screening to:
In Canada, privacy requirements can differ depending on the employer, jurisdiction and information being collected. The Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada advises organizations to identify why personal information is needed and limit collection to what is necessary for that purpose.
As a candidate, read any authorization or consent request carefully so you understand what information is being collected and why.
What Should You Do When an Employer Asks for a Background Check?
If this is your first background check, the process does not need to be complicated.
First, read the instructions from your employer. Then:
Most importantly, do not order a check based only on the words “background check.” Confirm exactly what your employer needs first.
Can You Get a Criminal Record Check Online in Canada?
Depending on the type of check required and your circumstances, eligible criminal record checks can be completed online in Canada.
This can be especially convenient when you already have a job offer and want to complete your remaining hiring requirements quickly.
Triton provides online criminal record checks for eligible individuals, allowing you to complete the required steps online without adding unnecessary in-person steps to your schedule.
Get Your Criminal Record Check Online
Frequently Asked Questions About Employment Background Checks
Do all jobs require a criminal record check?
No. Criminal record checks are common for many positions, but they are not required for every job. Requirements depend on the employer, industry, position, and applicable requirements.
Is a background check the same as a criminal record check?
No. A criminal record check is one type of background check. Employment background screening can also include employment, education, identity, driving, credit, or other role-specific checks.
What do I need for a criminal record check?
Requirements vary depending on the type of criminal record check and how it is completed. Follow the instructions provided by your employer and screening provider before starting.
How long does a criminal record check take?
Processing times depend on the type of check, provider, jurisdiction, and whether additional verification is required. If your employer has given you a deadline, start the process as soon as possible.
Can I use an old criminal record check for a new job?
Do not assume a previous check will be accepted. Employers may have specific requirements regarding the type and recency of the check. Confirm with your employer before submitting an older result.
Ready to Complete Your Criminal Record Check?
Being asked for a background check can feel unfamiliar when it is your first time, but the most important step is simple: confirm exactly what your employer requires.
If you have been specifically asked to provide a criminal record check, Triton makes it easy for eligible individuals to complete the process online.
Start Your Criminal Record Check Online
Share this post
Stay informed with our expert articles that delve into the latest trends and developments in the industry.
Thank you for your interest in a demo. Please complete the form below and a member of our sales team will reach out to you within 1 business day to schedule your demo. In the meantime, if you need to reach us urgently, you can also call us at 1 844-874-8667.
To unlock your access to your online demo, brochure, products, pricing and online account registration, tell us a little bit more about you:
Thank you for your interest in more information about Triton’s background checks. Please complete the form below and a member of our sales team will reach out to you within 1 business day to schedule your demo. In the meantime, if you need to reach us urgently, you can also call us at 1 844-874-8667.
To gain access to our platform you must first create an account. Please complete the form below to initiate your account registration. In the meantime, if you need to reach us urgently, you can also call us at 1 844-874-8667.
To gain access to our platform you must first create an account. Please complete the form below to initiate your online account registration.
To gain access to our platform you must first create an account. You indicated that you perform more than 10 background checks per month which may qualify you for reduced pricing. Please complete the form below to initiate your online account registration, once your information is received sales will contact you within the business day to complete your account set-up. In the meantime, if you need to reach us urgently, you can also call us at 1 844-874-8667.
Please complete the form below and a member of our sales team will reach out to you within 1 business day. In the meantime, if you need to reach us urgently, you can also call us at 1 844-874-8667.
Complete the form below to start the online account set-up sequence. Note you will need to have complete information for your company, billing department and intended users.
Please confirm that the background check you are requesting is a SOCIAL MEDIA BACKGROUND CHECK:
Skip to main content