Understanding HR Laws and Negative Feedback in Background Verification Process

Hi All,

I just wanted to know whether there are any HR laws that lay controls on background verification feedback given by managers about their reportees/ex-reportees. I mean, if a manager gives negative feedback about his/her ex-team member deliberately or due to any personal grudge, or because he/she is leaving the company during a needy time, or even simply, are there any rules strictly laid by HR management that would warn the manager or even prevent him from doing so? Please advise, considering an MNC environment.

Regards,

Negative feedback that is defamatory in nature can have legal remedies. However, general comments that do not paint you in a good light can have damaging effects. There is no real remedy for such conduct. Legally, you can address it by issuing notices or taking the matter to court, but proving it can be almost impossible. If you receive a bad Background Verification (BGV) report, ask for a copy and explore options to rectify this inaccurate portrayal of your work or character. This is crucial because it can impact your future job prospects.

Hi, Thanks Sir,

No, I did not receive any negative feedback from the background verification, but I just wanted to confirm that. Could you please clarify the statement about "general comments not painting you in a good light"?

Also, is background verification conducted only at the HR level, or can it also be requested from the reporting manager? Please advise.

General comments not painting you in a good light could imply making a general statement that he/she is not hardworking, keeps talking on the mobile, etc. These comments may not be considered defamation but generally portray a person as a poor worker. Companies do cross-verify information from reporting managers as well. Personally, I sometimes receive calls from other companies cross-checking how my erstwhile subordinate was when working with me. Many private companies are very particular about Background Verification (BGV).