When it comes to employment background screening, myths often cloud the process. These misunderstandings can misguide both employers and job seekers, potentially leading to poor decisions. In reality, background verification for employees is a vital tool for hiring success. Here, we’ll tackle five common myths and offer solutions to clear up the confusion.
Myth 1: Background Screening Only Checks Illegal Records
A popular misconception is that background checks for employment are all about illegal records. While unlawful history is certainly an important factor, it's not the only one.
Background screening for job candidates includes various checks. These can range from verifying employment history to checking educational credentials, licenses, and even credit reports. This helps employers make sure candidates truly meet the job requirements.
How to Address This: Employers should adopt a holistic approach and consider integrating multiple verification processes that include checking professional references, validating academic achievements, and confirming work history. Utilizing specialized background screening services can help provide a complete overview of a candidate's qualifications. This method reduces the risk of overlooking key details while hiring.
Myth 2: Background Checks Are Only for Big Companies
Many smaller businesses assume employment background screening is reserved for large corporations. They think it’s too costly or complex to implement. But in truth, small businesses can benefit just as much from thorough background checks for employment.
Hiring the wrong person can be a significant setback for any company. For small businesses, this can be even more costly. A bad hire can impact productivity, morale, and even legal standing.
How to Address This: Don’t let the size of your company deter you. Investing in employment background screening is an affordable option for businesses of all sizes. With the right tools and services, you can keep your hiring process smooth and efficient. Many background check providers offer scalable solutions that suit businesses of all sizes, making it easy to incorporate into your hiring practices.
Myth 3: Background Screening Violates Privacy
Some candidates fear that background checks for job positions invade their privacy. This myth is rooted in misunderstandings about the process.
In fact, employment background screening is governed by strict laws designed to protect privacy. For instance, the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) ensures employers obtain written consent from candidates before conducting checks. Moreover, employers are only allowed to review information that’s relevant to the role.
How to Address This: Make sure your company complies with privacy laws and always obtain consent from candidates before conducting any background screening. By explaining the process transparently, you can ease candidate concerns and maintain trust throughout the hiring process.
Myth 4: Background Checks Take Too Long and Are Expensive
Many employers and job seekers alike assume that employment background screening is a long, drawn-out process. This perception often comes with the belief that it’s also expensive.
However, with modern technology, background checks are quicker and more affordable than ever. Most background screenings can be completed in just a few days, and many services offer cost-effective solutions.
How to Address This: If you think background verification for employees takes too long, consider using an online service. These services typically offer fast turnaround times, allowing you to make informed hiring decisions without delays. Compare providers to find a service that fits your budget and needs.
Myth 5: Background Checks Are Only Required Beforsse Hiring
Some believe that once a person is hired, there’s no need for further background checks for job candidates. However, ongoing screenings can be beneficial for maintaining a secure and compliant workforce.
Situations change, and an employee’s background can evolve. Regular screenings help to identify potential risks and protect your business in the long run.
How to Address This: Consider implementing periodic background checks for your employees, especially for sensitive positions. This can be part of your risk management strategy, keeping your workplace secure and compliant.
One2Verify Services: Your Solution to Accurate and Timely Background Checks
At One2Verify, we offer a complete suite of background screening services to meet your organization's specific needs. Our offerings include:
- Standard Background Checks: We verify essential personal information such as name, date of birth, Social Security number, and address history. Additionally, we conduct nationwide state and federal felony and misdemeanour arrest and conviction record checks, as well as county ordinance violation arrest records.
- Financial History Checks: We assess candidates' financial backgrounds by reviewing bankruptcies, liens, and judgments over the past ten years.
- Employment History Verification: We confirm previous employment details, including job titles, dates of employment, and reasons for leaving, covering the past five years.
- Educational Verification: We validate educational credentials, confirming the highest level of education completed. If the National Student Clearinghouse or similar databases house the diploma, the cost of accessing this information will be added to the cost of the background check.
- Customized Background Checks: We offer customized background check packages to meet your company's specific needs, including additional checks such as motor vehicle records, counter-terrorism denied persons lists, and more.
Conclusion
Clearing up the myths about employment background screening is essential for making informed hiring decisions. By understanding the full scope of background checks and implementing best practices, employers can confidently steer the hiring process. As a small business or large corporation, the right background verification for employees helps you avoid costly mistakes and secure a reliable team.
Contact One2Verify today to learn more about our complete background screening services and how we can assist you in building a trustworthy workforce.