Congratulations! If your prospective employer has asked you to undergo an employment background check, you have probably separated yourself from the pack. We’re here to help you through it.

Check out our FAQ’s below for answers to the most commonly asked questions.

How do I dispute the results of my background check?

If you want to dispute the finding of your report, please contact us at 1-866-455-5671.

I have a question about my background check.

Please contact us by using our online request form or by calling us at 1-866-455-5671.

What kind of information does a background check include?

Every employer has their own specific background screening requirements that are based on their industry, regulations, the type of positions they hire for, etc. Examples of our services include: criminal record checks, credit history checks, education and employment verifications and references. Any questions about why certain types of background checks have been requested or how the results will be interpreted or used should be directed to the requesting organization.

Can a prospective employer conduct a background check on me without my permission?

No. In order to conduct a background check through Sterling Talent Solutions, an employer must get your authorization to do so in writing before they can proceed.

How can I prepare for my background check?

Before a background check is started, you will need to sign a written authorization which allows the process to begin. While every company has their own specific background screening criteria, there are some common pieces of information you’ll be asked for, including your current address, date of birth and contact information. Other information may be requested based on the services to be completed.

How long will it take to complete my background check?

Most Canadian employment background checks are completed within a week, however, there can be extenuating circumstances that cause delays in the process. The most common delays are related to unresponsiveness by past employers or academic institutions.

Will someone contact me if there is a problem with my background check?

If we need additional information from you in order to conduct your background check, either your employer or Sterling Talent Solutions will reach out to you.

How do I request a free copy of my background check?

Please contact us at 1-866-455-5671 or email privacy@sterlingts.com

Does my employer need to share the results of my background check with me?

In most situations, you have a right to know what personal information is held about you. You can ask for copies of your personal information from your employer or from Sterling Talent Solutions.

Can my employer share the results of my background check with another employer?

Sterling Talent Solutions will only share the results of the background check with the requesting organization. We do not control how personal information will be used once it has been disclosed to our client.

Does Sterling Talent Solutions make the hiring decision based on the outcome of my background check?

No. Sterling Talent Solutions does not make hiring decisions on behalf of our clients. Our role is to complete the services as ordered, provided we have the candidate’s consent to do so. We do not know how information will be used once it has been disclosed to our client. Any questions about why certain types of background checks have been requested or how the results will be interpreted or used should be directed to the requesting organization.

Will an expunged record show up on my background check?

Sterling Talent Solutions conducts criminal record checks in accordance with the Dissemination of Criminal Record Information Policy (http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/en/dissemination-criminal-record-information-policy). Record suspensions (formerly called pardons) will not produce a negative criminal record check unless the suspension has been revoked.

Will juvenile records show up on my background check?

Sterling Talent Solutions conducts criminal record checks in accordance with the Dissemination of Criminal Record Information Policy (http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/en/dissemination-criminal-record-information-policy). Convictions under the Youth Criminal Justice Act (or one of its predecessors) will not produce a negative criminal record check.

Will I get hired if I have a criminal record?

Every company has their own specific hiring criteria and Sterling Talent Solutions does not make hiring decisions or recommendations for our clients. Any questions about hiring policies should be directed to the requesting organization.

What happens if I can’t remember every detail about my past employment or education? Should I just make something up?

Try to provide as much information as you can and be as accurate as possible, but do not intentionally make up inaccurate information. We will compare the information you provide with the information the past employer or academic institution provides.

How do you protect my privacy?

We take the necessary technical and organizational measures to ensure personal information is secured against accidental access, destruction, loss, modification or disclosure and take appropriate steps to reduce or eliminate harm in case of a breach. Personal information held by Sterling Talent Solutions is stored on secure servers located in Calgary, Alberta. We aim to collect, use, disclose and retain personal information in accordance with your expectations and the law. You can find full details of our privacy practices in the relevant privacy statement.