What are background checks?

From a simple criminal record check to a full blown due diligence investigation the contents and type of check can vary
widely. Most checks consist of at least the following elements:

a.] Criminal record search
b.] Employment verification
c.] Education verification
d.] Driving record
e.] Credit check

The above elements will most likely be seen in your typical employment screening process. In a due diligence investigation many many elements could be added from multi-jurisdictional civil searches to interviews with friends, family and neighbors, whereas the average consumer may just be interested in one or two of these elements. Later we will discuss certain types of checks such as pre-employment screening or hiring a nanny for your children.

Why conduct them?

There are as many reasons to conduct background checks as there are types of checks. Some companies conduct checks on potential employees to determine whether or not the employee has a criminal record. This is especially important if the employee is going to be handling money or working closely with customers. Imagine hiring a person who has a history of violence and then putting them in a customer service position. You could be looking at a negligent hiring suit and subjecting your company to a great deal of liability. What about other types of checks? Many companies run a credit check on potential employees. How does this relate to a persons ability to work? In some instances it does not relate but may give a good indication if the person is reliable and can be counted on. In other cases it directly relates to the position the person applied for. For instance you may not want to hire a tax consultant who is in debt and on the verge of bankruptcy. It is just common sense. Most companies take something as subjective as a credit report on a case by case basis. There are a plethora of other reasons to conduct a background check on someone. Your creepy neighbor, a new nanny for the kids, your kids little league coach. You may be going into business with someone and want to know what type of dealings they have had in the past. These are all very compelling reasons.


For more info: www.absolute-backgroundcheck.com