Introduction:
In today’s job market, employers need to make informed decisions when hiring new employees. One way they do this is by conducting background checks or pre-employment screenings. A background check involves collecting and inspecting a range of private and public records to determine a candidate’s suitability for a position. In this article, we will explore what a background check is, its purpose, and the types of information it typically includes.
What is a Background Check?
A background check is a pre-employment screening process used by employers to verify a candidate’s identity and review their personal and professional history. It is a process of collecting and inspecting a range of private and public records to determine a candidate’s suitability for a position.
A background check represents a pre-employment screening process used by employers. They can perform background checks themselves or use a third-party screening service like Global Data Fusion. This process inspects candidates’ background information using public records and other resources to verify their identity and the information they provided to the employer.
What Does a Background Check Include?
The exact information included in a background check may vary depending on the employer and the position being applied for. However, there are certain types of information that are typically included in a background check. These may include:
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Criminal History One of the most common components of a background check is a criminal history search. This involves checking both local and national criminal databases to see if the candidate has a criminal record.
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Employment Verification Another important aspect of a background check is employment verification. This involves verifying the candidate’s previous employment history, including job titles, dates of employment, and reasons for leaving.
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Education Verification Background checks may also include education verification to ensure that the candidate has the degree or qualifications they claim to have.
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Credit History Employers may also choose to check a candidate’s credit history to determine their financial responsibility and stability. This may include reviewing the candidate’s credit score and credit report.
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Driving Record For positions that involve driving, employers may also check the candidate’s driving record to ensure they have a valid driver’s license and a safe driving history.
It’s important to note that employers must notify the applicant or employee that they might use information from a background check to make employment-related decisions through an FCRA compliant authorization form. This notice has to be in writing and in a stand-alone format and cannot be part of an employment application.
Conclusion:
In summary, a background check is a pre-employment screening process used by employers to verify a candidate’s identity and review their personal and professional history. It typically includes a criminal history search, employment verification, education verification, credit history, and driving record. Employers must follow federal laws and regulations (FCRA & EEOC) when conducting background checks and must notify candidates about the process. Understanding what a background check entails can help job seekers prepare for the hiring process and improve their chances of employment.