These days, employment background screening just isn’t optional. Risks abound for companies that don’t engage in pre-employee screening, from damage to their business and their reputation to theft and the potential for negligent hiring law suits.
A professional background check and screening company can assist in covering this important phase of hiring. However, not all employment background screening companies are created equal.
Employers should look for the following qualities and features when making their employment background screening company selection:
1. Positive Track Record
Does the service receive good reviews online? Read online testimonials, or ask the company to share some case studies. The employment background screening service you select should have a positive track record of effective results and satisfied customers.
2. Cutting-Edge Tools and Technology
The service you choose should also use the latest innovations in screening tech. Check that all findings are verified at the originating court if accessed from multi-state criminal databases. The goal is to get the most accurate, timely information about each candidate so that employers can select the best candidates for each position. They should draw from courts, probation departments and corrections departments to collect information.
3. Criminal Background Check
This parameter is one of the most important to look for from an employment background screening company. The results of this check will indicate the individual’s past behavior and help to inform hiring decisions.
That said, in some cases individuals with criminal records can actually be great hires. Factors like time since the conviction, the nature of the offense and what the applicant has done since then should all be considered. Rehabilitation is possible. Employers should protect themselves from the potential risks of negligent hiring, but also be open to giving reformed individuals a second chance.
4. Credit Check
In some cases, a position will require contact with company finances or the sensitive information of personnel. In these cases, employment background screening should include pulling a copy of the applicant’s credit report. Factors such as a low credit score, late payments, delinquent accounts and bankruptcy could indicate the individual will not be reliable or trustworthy.
5. Current on Screening Regulations
The screening service companies choose should also be compliant with all laws and regulations related to fair employment background screening. Inquire about this aspect of their business and verify that they make the effort to stay up to date with all relevant legislation.
Workers are the cornerstone of all businesses. They can also be a serious liability if they aren’t properly screened before hiring. A proven, experienced professional screening service can be indispensable to the hiring process.
In addition to a professional background check, employers should also verify work history and educational history to get a full sense of who they might be hiring. Online presence and social media screening can also offer valuable insights; however, all screening should be conducted consistently for each potential new employee.
Disclaimer: The information on InstantCriminalChecks.com is governed by our Terms of Use and is never intended as legal advice.
