How to Choose the Best Job Applicant and Conduct a Background Check

Although the unemployment rate is declining, human resources personnel may still be inundated with applications for one job opening. Using a reputable background check company can save businesses time and money.

One owner of a small business recently reported receiving more than 250 applications for one job opening. He was overwhelmed with the number and stymied as to how to proceed. Even though the job was for a technical position, the owner began his screening process by tossing all applications that contained typographical or grammatical errors.

Employers should strongly consider working with an employment screening company to conduct a background check on a potential employee. There are local laws, state laws, and the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) that cover what information can legally be accessed. For example, permission from the applicant is required under the FCRA. Without using a reputable employment screening company, an employer is more likely to find that they have run afoul of the law.

Employment Screening Background Check Information Guidelines

Although workers have a right to privacy, employers also have a right to check to see if the applicants actually have the credentials and experience they claim on their applications. In addition, a credit report and certain types of background checks may be appropriate for certain types of jobs.

• Credit report checks: Employers may decide not to hire someone for a job as, for example, a financial consultant based on information in the credit report. If so, a copy of the report must be given to the applicant and a reason given for not hiring him or her, as required by the FCRA.
• Criminal background check: Laws vary by state, but there are many jobs where a criminal background check seems imperative. For example, employers may not want to hire someone with the responsibility of overseeing the collection of money if that person was previously convicted for embezzling.
• Driving records: If a person is being hired as a bus, truck or delivery driver, the background check should include the driving record of the applicant.
• Educational credentials: Unfortunately, some applicants exaggerate and are not honest when listing their educational background. An education verification background check will verify whether or not the person has the credentials they claim.
• Work experience: An employment verification background check will verify that the work experience listed on the application is correct. It will also identify gaps in employment that the employer may want to discuss with the applicant.

Disclaimer Statement: All information presented is for information purposes only and is not intended to provide professional or legal advice regarding actions to take in any situation.