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Employment Background Check

Has anyone gone through the PWC background check in Canada done during the hiring process by First Advantage? For the employment check, do they reach out to the person you listed as a contact (previous Manager) to confirm your employment history or do they specifically need someone from HR? The reason I am asking is because I was recently let go without cause during the interview process and now I have accepted an offer which is contingent of a successful background check and I never disclosed that I was let go. My Manager who I listed will say I still work there, but then if they ask HR then they will say I am no longer working there. Just need to know who do they reach out to verify employment? Or what to do in this situation.

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Profile picture of Alessa
Alessa
Coach
on Sep 14, 2025
Ex-McKinsey Consultant & Interviewer | PEI | MBB Prep | Ex-BCG

Hey there :)

They usually go straight to HR or a third-party verifier rather than just the manager you list. HR is the official source for start and end dates, so if you’ve already been let go, it will show. Best is to be upfront now and frame it neutrally (e.g. position ended, restructuring, role no longer needed) rather than risk it coming out in the check. Transparency typically plays better than hoping they won’t see it.

best,
Alessa :)

Profile picture of Cristian
on Sep 15, 2025
Most awarded coach | Ex-McKinsey | Verifiable 88% offer rate (annual report) | First-principles cases + PEI storylining

Auch. 

It sounds like a confusing situation. 

If I were you, I'd try to clear this up with the employer asap. The sooner you're honest and open about this, the better.

Best,
Cristian

Profile picture of Mariana
Mariana
Coach
edited on Sep 17, 2025
#1 coach for Revolut | ex Mckinsey ex Nubank | Consulting & Fintech | Clients hired by Revolut, McKinsey, Kearney & more

Hi there,

Agree with the coaches above. Being let go is not a big deal, just solve this as soon as possible.

Best,

Mari