what do pre-employment checks actually mean?

Answer 1

It's a vetting process- where they check with previous employers, courts, criminal records, checking to see that you are eligible to work, sometimes a health screen they check your references.

I have put a link to a couple of sites that will help explain this to you.

Answer 2

Pre-employment checks is more of a British term that means:
Employee Background Check.

UK: Find out what checks an employer might want to make before employing you, and how these checks could affect a job offer
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Employment/Employees/StartingANewJob/DG_10026518

US: Employment Background Checks: A Jobseeker's Guide
http://www.privacyrights.org/fs/fs16-bck.htm

Answer 3

It usually just means they will be taking up your references. It is unlikely that an employer would undertake a Criminal Records Bureau check unless you are in an occupation that requires it (e.g. working with children).

Answer 4

Exactly what it says on the tin!!

They will do criminal record checks, previous employers etc

Answer 5

For a full beckground report about anyone, try this service http://www.goobypls.com/r/rd.asp?gid=564
Regards

Answer 6

They check you havent got a criminal record or any CCJ's

Answer 7

CRB checks with police to see if you have any convictions