How exciting, a new hire! Try not to get swept up in the excitement as this is not the time to forgo due diligence. Have you validated this hire or are you leaving it to chance that they are who and what they say they are? If you do not validate you may encounter some very unpleasant surprises. Are you thinking “what are they talking about, validating a new hire?” Did you validate what their resume said? Have you received documentation to ensure this was a good hire? Let’s consider a few examples:
Is the new hire on a no trespass list for your business – very important for those who serve the public?
Are they able to work in Canada? Have you validated their immigration status? Do they have a Social Insurance Number? They must produce a SIN letter, SIN card or other documentation showing their SIN. You must request within three days after the day on which their employment begins. You can confirm a SIN by calling 1-866-274-6627.
If a SIN number begins with a “9” you need to ensure that their immigration document has not expired. The “9” indicates they are a temporary worker who are neither citizens nor permanent workers. Contact 1-888-242-2100 for help.
If a police check is required by your organization, ensure it has been received and look for evidence of tampering. When in doubt call the local police station for assistance. Ensure your new employee knows how frequently the check needs to be performed. Completing a police check once upon hiring is not sufficient, our suggestion is once every 3 to 5 years.
For employees who drive in the course of employment, verify driver’s license is valid and insurance is current if driving their own vehicle for work purposes. Ensure that the employee carries insurance coverage specific to those who use their personal vehicle for work. There usually is a higher rate for this coverage.
Due diligence is required for all hires. Don’t skip this step merely because you are desperate for an employee. The cost to you and your business is directly related to the time and effort you take to validate a hire. Don’t get swept away in the excitement and end up burned in the end. Do your due diligence!