Employment Decisions are not always easy.  You want to make the right decision, and checking a candidate’s background may be part of your process.  Making a poor hiring decision could be costly to your businss.  Should you use a background check in your hiring decision?  There are a few things to consider.

1. Do your employees have access to sensitive information such as social security or bank account numbers?  Are they working in clients’ homes? 
2. Will the candidate have access to your accounting where fraudulent transactions can be recorded?
3. Will the employees have access to private information such as new product development, technology, etc?
4. Will the employees be working with children?

Some types of background checks include credit, drug tests, verifying past employment and education, criminal background and driving records. There may be specific rules in your state for which types are allowed based on the type of employment.  For instance, if your employee is not a driver in any capacity for your business, a DMV check may not be allowed.  Many states also look down on credit checks saying it may not be a true reflection of the candidate due to the economy over recent years.

Under the Fair Reporting Credit Act, businesses must obtain a person’s written consent before seeking a credit report. If you decide not to hire or promote someone based on information in the credit report, you must provide a copy of the report and let the applicant know of his or her right to challenge the report.

You can use a background check company to search for information on candidates, but there are some things you can check yourself as well.  Contact the schools listed on the resume and verify the candidate attended and does indeed have the degree listed.  Call former employers and verify the job duties and dates of employemnt listed on the resume.  Reference checks can also be helpful, but speak with an actual former superivsor to get a true picture of their work performance (assuming they will share the information with you.)

Performing background checks can be an important aspect of your hiring process, but make sure you follow your state guidelines.  Good luck with your hiring!

Candy