Many businesses prefer to use background checks to verify the identities and backgrounds of their job applicants. This can be very helpful in the hiring process since an estimated 40 percent of business resumés contain false or misleading information. Background checks will show whether or not applicants are telling the truth about their names, addresses, and previous experiences on their applications. Hiring high-quality and trustworthy employees is an integral step for many companies.

Using Background Checks for Job Applicants

Requirements for job applicant background checks are set by the Fair Credit Reporting Act, or FCRA. Before employers can conduct job applicant background checks, they must first notify their applicants and get their consent. The notifications and agreements must be in writing for documentation and legal purposes. Some companies may require background checks for every applicant before the hiring process can be completed.

All inquiries for background checks must be related to the positions that are being filled. For example, when people are applying for positions at schools where employees will be working with children, it may be wise to look at the criminal records of applicants. Applicants who have committed crimes, especially sex offenses, or anything related to children could be extremely detrimental as employees at a school. Also, for banking positions, it is important for employers to learn whether applicants have a history of theft or embezzlement.

When seeking background information about applicants, employers can choose from varying types of background checks. Some background checks that provide extensive information about individuals may be expensive and may take some time to compile. On the other hand, employers can acquire background checks quickly and easily through internet screening services. These services can provide all the basic information about applicants over the Internet so employers can save time in the hiring process.