Employers run background checks on their employees to gather extra and hidden information that they might not know otherwise. Nowadays, it’s a common process for companies and employers to run background checks prior to hiring. It helps them build a perspective about their future employees and ensure they are eligible for the position.
Background checks are not always the same. It can be different, depending on the job profile you are applying for. It is even different for organizations and companies, as they run background checks for the required and necessary information.
Types of Background/Reference Checks
There are various forms of background/reference checks available:
1. Criminal Check
To know if the candidate applying for the job would be suitable, and will be able to maintain a safe working environment, companies run background checks. Background checks are mainly run for high-profile jobs, or ones that consist of others’ safety.
This check is done to ensure that the applicant has a clean criminal history and is not a threat to everyone else he/she would be working with. It is also to make sure that the applicant is trustworthy to maintain the confidentiality of the company’s critical data.
There are restrictions to background checks and criminal checks according to the laws. These restrictions have to be taken under consideration by employers while investigating. The new criminal background checks regulations ensure that required information is shared with employees, according to the law.
2. Drug Screening
In certain industries where full consciousness is mandatory, drug screening is done. This includes the full background on the drugs and alcohol addiction profile of the candidate. In some cases, if this check doesn’t come clean or meet the standards of the company, they can reject the candidate based on this.
3. Media profiles
Social media platforms are nowadays accessible and a great source of information. In addition to that, it talks about the true self of a person. Hence, employers tend to check social media profiles to understand the character and personality traits of individuals applying for the job. This allows employers to decide whether the candidate is suitable for the working environment and the company’s reputation. This also allows them to avoid any consequences because of the applicant’s involvement in social campaigns.
4. Qualification check
CVs and Resumes are unreliable nowadays, as employees try to fill up the gaps in order to obtain their dream jobs. Employers run a complete qualification check to understand the applicant’s educational background, and if they would be able to match the company standards.
It is also important for employers since they want to avoid hiring an employee who is incapable of the responsibilities given to them.
5. Employment and Credit Check
This check is run to know if the applicant is dedicated to their work and professional life. Employers run employment and credit checks to understand employees’ reliability and if their prior employers have anything specific to mention that could affect the hiring decision. It’s to check their employment history and overall work credit.
Final Words
Background checks ensure employers keep a safe working environment for their staff. It helps them to hire the best possible candidates in their company who could check the right boxes. This also allows employees to gain the confidence of their employers, with a clean background check, though advisable to always mention points you are sure will show up in the check.
