A background check that is done poorly will only give you an inaccurate result which may later result into complicated interview process or put your company in trouble. Here is what you need to know:
Maintain a policy on how a background check must be performed: This can be document in form of a chart so everyone knows which point to complete and at what time. A poorly-done background check can cause legal issues if you are being exceptional in the process. Such as running a criminal check on certain applicants from specific backgrounds.
Get legal advice on how local laws govern the use of a background check: Background checks can reveal sensitive information and in some areas you may not have access to some information. It is essential to talk to a lawyer and to make sure that your background check does not cause legal issues for you and your company.
Give applicants a chance to correct errors: Information obtained during a background check can sometimes be inaccurate. Giving an applicant an opportunity to explain or amend whatever error or you may have found might help you save the best candidate for your company. Do not be judgmental.
Use background checks consistently: Use the same method of background check for all your applicants. Using only a selected mode of background check for candidates chosen can land you into legal issues. It will be treated as a legal discrimination.
Get an employee's permission: You need written consent of the employee if you want to hire an investigator outside, or if you're going to do a credit report, access school transcripts or access detailed military records.
If you have asked for an employee's permission and such is denied, you are free to take the person out of consideration for the position legally. Lastly, a background check helps during job screening, to select the right candidate and it is essential when you are hiring for a sensitive position which has to do with trust.
