Although background screening checks are a ubiquitous tool in the business world, there are still many things people misunderstand about them. The depth of information retrieved, how long it takes, and why these checks are so essential are all aspects of the screening process that are often overlooked.
To rectify that, we’ll take you through five things about background checks you might be unaware of. Let’s jump in.
1. They Uncover More Than You Might Think
You may find yourself questioning, ‘How far back does a background check go?’ However, it isn’t the length of time that’s important here; it’s the depth of information recovered.
The entire point of background screening checks is to provide a clearer image of who an applicant is based on their history. This can include many things, including education, previous employment, and even credit score history.
2. Exaggerated Employment Dates Are a Common Offence
People may lie about their credentials. Candidates could lie about their employment history, how long they worked in a position, or any number of other things. Of course, any amount of dishonesty when applying for a job can have significant negative repercussions. Background checks help to confirm hat a person actually is who they say they are.
3. International Criminal Checks Are Vital
Many background screening services make the mistake of only completing criminal checks on a national level. Some only go as far as the state they’re in! This leaves out a lot of vital information that could go beyond a specific geography.
Background screening checks should encompass international criminal records to acquire a fully realized picture. A convicted criminal who committed their crimes overseas is still a potential threat to any business.
4. Background Checks Aren’t Only Used During the Hiring Process
Though it’s commonly assumed that background checks are only rolled out during the initial hiring process, it isn’t unheard of for businesses to complete them on an ongoing basis. This is especially relevant to businesses that employ people who may hold multiple jobs. These checks assure employers that their staff are precisely who they say they are.
5. Not All Industries Care About Background Checks (But They Should!)
Despite the overwhelming importance of background checks in building a trustworthy, reliable workforce, many industries neglect to complete them. This is most common in industries such as hospitality, where staff turnover is high, and the risks are relatively low. Regardless of the lowered risk, background checks are still integral to the safety of customers and co-workers alike, not to mention the reputation of the business.
There’s More to the Process Than You Realize
Despite numerous businesses across the globe conducting background checks every day and countless prospective employees being subjected to them, they still remain somewhat misunderstood. Staying up-to-date on the ins and outs of this process will allow you to understand why they are so important and better prepare you for navigating the hiring process, either as an applicant or employer.
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