The Importance of Employee Background Screening in Today's Workplace

With the changing landscape of hiring laws and the diverse challenges faced by modern businesses, the role of background screening has become more crucial than ever before. This article explores the necessity of background checks in verifying the validity of candidate claims and ensuring a safer and more reliable workforce.

The Evolution of Background Screening

It was not always this way. When I worked at a company before hiring laws changed, we had the privilege of reviewing background check (BG) results of applicants prior to making a formal job offer. My colleague in the adjacent office carefully reviewed the paperwork for every prospective candidate. One day, after her candidate left the interview, she noticed an additional sheet of paper in her printer—evidencing the previous interviewee's murder conviction. Only after these laws were updated did we learn that we could only conduct background checks after a job offer was made.

This change in policy underscored the need for thorough background checks. The example of my boss's private interview, where she made a job offer to an applicant and then initiated the background check, highlights the necessity of verifying personal and professional claims. When a day or so later, she saw the background check revealing a criminal history of rape, the decision to not hire was clear.

Why Background Screenings are Absolutely Crucial

It's not just a formality; background checks are vital for several reasons. Employers need to trust the information provided on resumes and during interview processes. Too often, candidates exaggerate or even outright lie about their qualifications, experiences, and backgrounds.

Consider this example: "I spent the last three years in the Australian outback teaching Aboriginal people to read!" This statement might seem impressive on the surface. However, behind the facade is an individual with a nine-year conviction for fraud. Similarly, "I have a Masters Degree in Finance from Princeton University" may sound impressive, but it is a fictitious claim. The actual individual either went to an online telemarketing school or earned a completely different degree.

Another example, “I have a clean driving record and would be an excellent bus driver for your school district!” These claims are often undermined by multiple DUI convictions. An individual’s driving record can be a critical aspect of their suitability for certain roles, particularly those in transportation and public services.

What's the Purpose of Employee Background Checks?

Background checks are essential because they reveal or uncover information that is unlikely to be provided in a resume or job application. This includes but is not limited to the following:

Criminal History

Employers need to know if a candidate has a criminal record, as this can affect their suitability for certain positions, particularly those that involve handling sensitive information or interacting with vulnerable populations.

Credit History

For positions that involve financial responsibility or handling money, a credit check can reveal past financial misdeeds or a pattern of debt. This ensures that candidates are trustworthy and reliable.

Driving Record

For roles that require driving, such as transportation, a comprehensive driving record check can uncover DUIs, traffic violations, and other violations. This is vital for public safety.

Tax/Financial History

A background screening can also reveal financial misconduct or tax issues, which can be a significant red flag for certain jobs.

Citizenship and Immigration Status

In an increasingly globalized workforce, verifying a candidate's citizenship and immigration status can prevent legal and compliance issues, ensuring a workforce that is not only skilled but also comply with the law.

Conclusion: In summary, the importance of employee background checks cannot be overstated. They are a critical tool for validating the claims made by candidates, ensuring a safe and reliable workforce, and protecting the interests of both the employer and the community. By prioritizing background checks, employers can make informed hiring decisions and mitigate risks that could otherwise undermine the organization's integrity and performance.