As everyone knows, the baby boomer generation is not getting any younger and will soon be the largest demographic in the United States. The need for healthcare professionals and in-home caregivers is booming and is one reason job demands in the U.S. have increased. Many people are getting into the field and I know a few myself.
One of the industries booming right alongside healthcare is background checks. Along with that you have more and more individual’s intent on harming or scamming as many people as they can. Along with that, you also have background check scams popping up faster than anyone can keep up.
Today, I will cover some steps to take when hiring someone to work as an in-home caretaker. This is a very serious step and requires the necessary measures be taken to ensure the smoothest possible hiring and employment process. Just think that this worker will have access to your home and family when you are not present. Below are steps to take during the vetting and hiring process:
- Consult your doctor of course as they are a good place to start. Also ask for referrals from other caregivers you know — relatives, friends and coworkers.
- Make sure you are clear about pay and expectations with candidates. However, do not be a cheapskate. I have heard countless complaints from the caretakers I know that the work simply doesn’t pay enough for the commitment and effort required,
- Check if the person is an independent contractor or working through an agency. Once you know, go to the IRS website and make sure you have the proper tax forms and instructions.
- Make a list of questions and concerns beforehand so you aren’t left stuttering during the interview. Require a résumé, job history, photo ID and at least two references.
- Of course…ask about previous home care experience. Do they have special training, such as working with clients who have dementia? You should be able to find out pretty quickly whether they are compassionate or simply looking for work.
- Include your parent in the interview or let them meet the people you’re considering hiring. If your parent doesn’t like the person, reconsider. There’s no sense in creating problems, the process is going to be difficult enough as is.
- Why did they leave their former job? Have they ever been in trouble with the law? A criminal background check of felonies and serious misdemeanors can usually be obtained in each state. Do NOT order a nationwide criminal background check unless you have access to employment background check services, or you have money to splurge. The many consumer services online offer nationwide criminal searches, but are not the right tool for the job, because of inaccuracies and the lack of records in some states. However, they can help you acquire complete records on the state level.
I have been working on procedures for acquiring the most complete records possible in each state and you can start with that at the directory page. Each state has a page and I lay out how to access criminal and civil records using either the state records system or an online background check. Each state varies and one method might be easier than another depending on the state you are in.
Categories: Screening Nannies and Caregivers
