Background checks are a good way to protect your company and your employees. However, they can also be a liability if not handled properly.
Some of the pros of background checks include that they can help you find out whether an applicant is a match for the position or not. They can also help you screen out any potential problems before they start working for your company.
However, some of the cons include that background checks can be costly and time-consuming. Background checks can also lead to discrimination if done too strictly.
What is a Background Check?
Background check is a process of checking the background of an individual, usually for the purpose of employment. It can be done in different ways and at different stages of hiring.
Background checks are typically done for a few reasons:
- To ensure that individuals have not been convicted of any crimes that could affect their ability to work in certain industries or with certain clients
- To ensure that they have no criminal records
- To make sure they are not using drugs or alcohol
- To make sure they have no personal problems that would affect their ability to do the job
5 Must-Know Facts About Employee Background Checks
In the 21st century, a background check is an essential tool for employers to help them make hiring decisions. Employers need to know if their candidates have criminal records or a history of poor performance. Background checks are not always 100% accurate. They can only reveal what's in public records and what's documented in your application form.
- A background check can take up to 4-6 weeks to complete depending on the company’s needs.
- A background check is not the same as a criminal record search which will cost more than $500
- The average cost of an employment screening ranges from $150-$500 depending on how long it takes and what type of company you're searching for.
- Employer background checks are often done on prospective employees because criminal history is a concern for employers.
Use Cases for Employers with a Business Background Check in Place
Employers are now using company background checks in order to prevent hiring the wrong candidate. With this process, employers can find out if a candidate is a good fit for the job and if they are someone who will be able to contribute to the company's goals.
There are many different ways that companies use background checks to search for qualified candidates. One way is by checking candidates’ social media profiles and websites. Another way is by looking at their resume or CV. Background checks, especially when they include social media searches, can be seen as invasive by some people. However, these background checks help employers find qualified candidates who will be able to contribute to the company's goals and provide value in return for their salary or hourly rate.
What Happens if You Don't Have One? Five Ways the Lack of an Employee Screening Can Cost You
A lack of employee screening can cost companies in many ways. The following are some of the ways that hiring mistakes can cost a company.
- Hiring low-quality employees and then not being able to fire them
- Not being able to see your company's culture in the interview process
- Not knowing what kind of work an applicant will do on a daily basis
- Hiring without having time for the interview process because you have so many applicants
- Having to pay high costs for bad hires and then wondering why you don't have enough money for other important things