What Are The 3 Background Screens For Hiring iStock_000009726138XSmallHiring and recruiting are difficult enough, but when you interview a candidate, you may not be getting the true background. There are a number of pre-employment screening checks that employers may make on job applicants and they include reference, background and credit checks. Reference Checks The most common check on a potential new hire is the reference check. Candidates should provide both personal references as well as references from former employers. Although a reference check on previous employers may not provide comprehensive insight into the applicant, what it does do is authenticate the” 5 Ws”: ◾Who is this person? Reference checks help to confirm identity. In today’s world of identity theft, this is imperative. ◾Where was her/his previous job or where did s/he attend school? ◾When was s/he employed/ attend school? ◾What are her/his specific qualifications or characteristics that make her/him a good candidate for the position? ◾Why did s/he vacate the previous position? Often, you won’t get any more detail from a former employer than confirmation that the person was employed there, dates of hire and termination and salary information. But, it never hurts to inquire about a former employee’s work history, abilities, attitude and attendance. Criminal Background Checks Criminal background checks may also be conducted by an employer. It’s an employer’s responsibility to ensure a safe environment for all employees as well as prevent theft and other criminal activities. Credit Checks The Fair Credit Reporting Act authorizes potential employers to gain access to a potential employee’s credit report for employment purposes. Credit payment histories are sometimes used in the evaluation of a job candidate. In order to obtain a ‘consumer report’, written authorization must be provided by the job candidate. When reviewing a job candidate’s history, most employers conduct a “look back” review of the past six to seven years. Large companies (500 or more employees) are more likely to conduct a credit check. What types of references and job screening are you currently doing for potential new hires? Are you comfortable that your process is sufficient?
Posted on: Sun, 06 Oct 2013 20:13:00 +0000
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