Hiring the right candidates is a vital aspect of achieving business success. Employers can effectively narrow down their candidate pool by utilizing background checks for employment, which serve as a highly effective screening technique. It is crucial for business owners to not only familiarize themselves with the available resources to aid them in selecting the right candidates but also to understand how to effectively utilize these resources.
Get a deeper understanding of the value and process of conducting a background check.
What is a background check for employment?
A background check serves as a crucial candidate screening tool employed by employers to assess the accuracy and reliability of the information provided by job applicants.
Its purpose is to identify any potential concerns or warning signs that may arise before proceeding with further consideration for a job position.
Recent research indicates that an overwhelming 92% of employers conduct some form of background check during the hiring process. Moreover, this study also reveals that 15% of employers reevaluate current employees on an annual basis, while 10% conduct rescreening prior to job promotions.
Benefits of running background checks as Employer
Employers conduct background checks to ensure they choose the right candidate for the position, safeguarding their business from potential harm caused by individuals who may exhibit fraudulent or reckless behavior in the workplace.
By adhering to state and federal regulatory requirements, background checks demonstrate your commitment to thorough and diligent hiring practices, which is crucial in today’s professional landscape.
Additionally, background checks play a vital role in protecting your employees by enhancing workplace safety measures, fostering a secure and conducive environment for all.
Types of Background Check for Employment
There are several types of background checks employers can use to screen candidates, such as:
Social Security verification
By validating a candidate’s Social Security number (SSN), you can ascertain the accuracy of their identity and confirm their eligibility to work in the country. If you need to verify 10 or fewer Social Security numbers at once, the Social Security Administration’s website offers prompt results.
Criminal Background Check
A criminal background check is a widely used tool for screening new hires. It aims to verify whether a candidate has a criminal record. If such a record is found, this report will provide details of their past arrests, convictions, and sentences, along with information about any ongoing cases.
Drug Testing
Drug testing may be a necessary component of a thorough background check in order to address concerns about reduced workplace productivity and increased employee turnover rates. By conducting such testing at a local clinic, employers receive direct and accurate results, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding potential employees. This helps to ensure a safe and productive work environment, promoting both the well-being of the team and the overall success of the organization.
Credit Check
A credit check offers valuable insights into a candidate’s financial stability. It not only allows you to verify essential details like their name, address, and contact information but also provides a window into their financial responsibility.
Employment History
You can also utilize background checks to confirm the candidate’s work experience. Typically, the hiring manager reaches out to previous employers via phone or email to carry out this verification. Some employers provide only basic details like the individual’s position and tenure of employment.
Education Verification
Depending on the job specifications, it may be necessary to verify the completion of an educational program or course. In certain circumstances, it is also crucial to ensure that the candidate possesses the required certifications or licenses.
Motor Vehicle Record
If a candidate will be driving a vehicle as part of their job duties, it may be necessary to review motor vehicle records. This report checks for infractions, such as speeding tickets or DUIs.
How to conduct a background check for employment
Some companies opt to delegate the task of conducting employment background checks to a professional service, but it is also possible for you to perform one on your own. To assist you in running a comprehensive background check on a potential job candidate, we have compiled a step-by-step guide.
1. Review state laws about background check regulations
Before initiating a background check for employment, it is vital to acquaint yourself with the laws and regulations pertaining to the specific information employers are permitted to investigate in your state. A simple and effective way to achieve this is by visiting your state’s Department of Public Safety website, where you will discover invaluable insights and guidance on this matter.
2. Set clear policies regarding background checks
Conduct all background checks with fairness, impartiality, and professionalism. Establishing clear policies to outline your background checking process can prevent the influence of personal biases and discrimination, safeguarding your company against legal complications.
3. Notify candidates you will be conducting a background check
In order to comply with the guidelines outlined in the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), it is essential to inform candidates about the background checks that will be conducted. Typically, this notification is incorporated into the application process and requires the candidate’s consent in writing.
4. Contact candidate references
When selecting candidates for a job, it is crucial to gather two to three references to validate their qualifications. Reach out to each reference via email to arrange a phone call, allowing for a discussion about the candidate’s suitability. Prepare a set of probing questions to confirm or disprove their skill sets and work ethic. For additional assurance, consider the possibility of meeting the references in person or through a video chat to verify their identity.
5. Use a background check website to review records
You have the option to either hire a professional background-checking service or use an online background check website to uncover criminal and civil public records. These services may require a fee for their assistance.
6. Ask the candidate to take a drug test
If your job requires employees to operate commercial vehicles, care for children, or work in potentially hazardous environments, it may be necessary to conduct drug tests. These tests are an essential measure to ensure the safety of both your employees and customers. Employers often collaborate with certified clinics for conducting these tests, and the results are directly sent to the employer for review.
7. Review the results to determine a candidate’s validity
Once you have gained access to the background check documents, carefully review them to assess if the candidate is suitable for your company. If you find any information that makes you uncomfortable, it is advisable to consider other candidates who might be a better fit for the position.
Running and interpreting a background check can be a complex and confusing process. However, by partnering with ACI Background Checks, a trusted employment screening provider, you can make this process more straightforward and productive.
ACI Background Checks takes several measures to ensure that the reports are easily comprehensible for employers.
If you want to access and utilize background checks for your business without any confusion or compliance issues, reach out to us to learn more about how we can assist you.