Background checks are an important part of the employee screening and hiring process. Investigating the background of an applicant for hire is particularly essential for risk-sensitive positions and helps to mitigate risk exposure should the employee be involved in any misconduct or illegal activities. The time and monetary investment in making background checks a part of the hiring process can help avoid potential future issues as well.
Performing a background check is also the employer’s opportunity to verify the information provided by the applicant. It can reveal misinformation, whether mistakenly or intentionally omitted, such as residency where a criminal record might be located. Background checks also help to confirm attendance dates, education, degrees or certifications earned, and prior employment details.
Background checks not only help to promote a safe workplace and reduce the odds of a bad hire, using background checks during the hiring process also:
• Provides a safe workplace for employees and clients
• Assists in hiring the most qualified people.
• Minimizes exposure from employee liability with appropriate due diligence practices.
• Encourages integrity, honesty and transparency during the application and interview process.
• Discourages applicants from hiding information.
Remember, the applicant’s history can be a prediction of future behavior and can help the hiring manager make an informed choice. Having a background screening program in place and disclosing the process to applicants early-on can help every business improve the recruitment and hiring process.