What are the steps for performing a criminal background check for someone you plan on hiring?

1)  You must have written permission to perform the background check.

2)  You will need the birth date of the person as part of the process.

3)  You must make sure that you make a job offer BEFORE you receive a birth date, otherwise, there are potential age discrimination issues.

4)  The job offer should be contingent upon completion of the background check.  I like to use the following language:  “It is our pleasure to extend to you an offer to join __________________ as a __________________, subject to the successful completion of a criminal background check.”