Recommendation letters and background checks

[shakira2009]

Hi,
I'm about to move to Toronto and will be looking for employment there.

Are recommendation letters necessary when applying for a job?
Do potential employers do background checks by calling your former employer?

I was thinking of asking my boss to write a 'generic' letter, include her contact phone number and sign it, just in case I need it in the future.
But is this really necessary? What are your experiences?

Of course I'm talking about professional work (let's say, from Admin.Assistant to Operational Manager), not survival jobs like the ones at stores or restaurants.

Thanks for your suggestions!

 

[scylla]

No - recommendation letters are not necessary. But if you have one or several past employers who are willing to write them, I'd go ahead and get that done.

Yes - background checks are typically performed by calling one or more of your previously employers. In most large companies, even if someone can provide a reference letter, a call to former employers is still done.

 

[Rossei]

For most permanent jobs, you will be asked for 'References' and they generally ask it when they can make an initial offer. References is something where you state your previous managers' name, designation and contact info. An employer can ask for #2-5 references. You are normally not asked to provide "recommendation letters" wheareas the employer will directly contact your references and get info of their interest. But you can bring some if they're willing to write, isn't doing any harm.

'Background checks' refer to your personal background in terms of any record of you doing misrepresentation, forgery, fraudulence etc. A credit card number, driving license or police clearance may be asked in addition.

 

[shakira2009]

Dear scylla and Rossei,

Thank you very much for your answers!

And sorry it took me so long to reply... I was sorting things out in the process of moving to Canada ;D

Have a great day!

 

[jlrp]

For most permanent jobs, you will be asked for 'References' and they generally ask it when they can make an initial offer. References is something where you state your previous managers' name, designation and contact info. An employer can ask for #2-5 references. You are normally not asked to provide "recommendation letters" wheareas the employer will directly contact your references and get info of their interest. But you can bring some if they're willing to write, isn't doing any harm.

'Background checks' refer to your personal background in terms of any record of you doing misrepresentation, forgery, fraudulence etc. A credit card number, driving license or police clearance may be asked in addition.

thanks for the info. i will prepare at least 3 references.