The process of hiring a new employee can be daunting and stressful enough on its own, and running the right kind of background check on someone is more complicated than it sounds. If you aren’t sure where to start, there are some companies that help you create a background check system that works for your needs. Here are some pointers that might help lead you in the right direction when looking for a way to vet your new employee.
1. There is more than one database
There is not a single type of check that suits everyone the same. Criminal records are spread out among multiple databases, so getting the information you need maybe more than just a single click. You may have to combine a number of checks to create the background check that works for you!
2. Find a system that works for you
As there are many databases to search from, you may not be able to get to all of them. It is recommended you start with the cities and jurisdictions your business is based in, as there is statically more of a chance that something would show come up there. Alternatively, you could look into your candidate’s previous addressed and do searches there.
3. You need the candidate’s permission to run a check
Even though background checks are quite common these days, you still need to notify the applicant that you’d like to do one, and they have to agree in writing, and specifically for that check. You cannot use a blanket agreement to run multiple background checks. Each one must be individually agreed to.
4. Work history checks are more complicated
You can verify a candidate’s work history by reaching previous employers, but some may not give you much information due to laws protecting the applicant. However, you can get more information by performing an employment verification check. The candidate’s privacy is protected, as these searches are more anonymous.
6. A social media search is not a background check
This has been an increasingly popular way of getting information on a potential applicant. However, this does not constitute a background check. It may be a good way to get some general information but does not protect you from liability. In fact, social media searches provide a lot of discriminatory information that is not relevant to a background check, such as political, religious, or sexual preferences. This is also frowned upon by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
7. Criminal background checks are not the only kind of check
There are also credit checks, driving records, sex offender registry checks, , civil history checks, employment history verification checks, educational verification, professional license checks, and many more. Make sure you are looking for the one you need for your purposes. Although the criminal background check may be the most important, there might still be some you would want to cover.
There is no one solution that works for everyone, but hopefully, this information can help you piece together a system that works right for you. Remember, it is important to protect yourself, but also to respect the privacy and rights of the applicant!
