For more information
Federal regulations regarding driver screening are found in CFR49 Part 391. Drug and alcohol test rules are Part 382. Both can be downloaded from the FMCSA website, www.fmcsa.dot.gov. Printed copies and other compliance aids are available from J.J. Keller & Associates, www.jjkeller.com or (800) 327-6868.
For information about work permits, contact the Immigration and Naturalization Service Office of Business Liaison, (800) 357-2099 or any local INS office.
The Social Security Administration's Employee Verification Service can be found through the agency's website at www.ssa.com. Information on the IRS/INS Employment Verification Pilot Program call (888) 464-4218 or the INS website, www.ins.gov.
The Interview
Experienced recruiters say they can learn more in a one-on-one interview than any number of tests or background checks. The secret: asking the right questions and listening to the answers. Following are some interview tips.
Review the application carefully before the interview begins, looking for missing information or areas you want to explore further.
Ask open-ended questions. Have they ever encountered a rude receiver or shipper? How did they handle the situation? Give them time to think about the answer.
Be attentive. Take notes. Don't take telephone calls or allow interruptions during the interview. Let the applicant do the talking.
Look for recurring themes. For instance, a driver that blames dispatchers or "management" for problems in all previous jobs may have a problem with authority.
