4 Common Misconceptions about Background Checks
Many people are still confused about Background Checks.
Stories about abuses and inaccuracies in the background check system create a feeling of distrust about the entire process.
Despite this, the majority of Background Checks are not only conducted completely up front but with a focus on accuracy.
Read on as I dispel 4 Common Misconceptions about Background Checks.
The entire process surrounding Background Checks and the companies that process them is filled with Misconceptions and Mystery. Here I will discuss 4 of the most common of these and try to “clear the air”.
- Misconception 1: Detectives Conduct Most Background Checks.
The majority of Background Check Companies do not bill themselves as “detectives” or private investigators. They are careful to conduct all inquiries using a signed release and with full disclosure (a universally suggested best practice).
A Good Background Check Should Always be "Transparent"! "Tweet This"
All parties should know exactly what information is being gathered and have consented to being screened.
Background Checks are designed to verify the information supplied by the applicant and, at a certain point in the process, to determine whether that applicant will be a safe hire.
Despite belief to the contrary, it is not a means to “detect” information on an applicant’s social activities or private life. In most cases, the screening does not extend to asking questions of friends or relatives concerning anything personal (there are some positions in “security sensitive” occupations where this is necessary).
The bottom line; there should be no mystery in what is done during the Background Check process if done correctly. Everyone involved should be kept up to speed and informed.
- Misconception 2: Only Big Companies Need to do Background Checks.
Anyone who is hiring, even small companies or individuals, would benefit greatly from the use of background checks.
A background check is designed to help any employer make a safe and skilled hire. A small company can be especially vulnerable when the hire “goes bad”. Using background checks consistently as part of the process can help shield a company from litigation or violence in the workplace. Both of which can bankrupt small business.
- Misconception 3: You Can Get all the Information You Need for a Background Check Online.
The reality is that online research is not enough. Most online searches are done using databases that can be out of date or incomplete. Further research is definitely needed for the best and most accurate results.
Subjects with similar names, missing or inaccurate identifying information (date of birth, previous names used, etc.) are all things that can skew online background check results.
Any information gathered during the initial online search should be confirmed and verified through research in the court system. A good background check company will “go that extra mile”.
(current litigation against "online database" companies highlight this problem of inaccurate, incomplete, and outdated information ~ further promoting the need to hire a background check company with sound practices)
You can read more about Online Databases and Your Background Checks Here!
- Misconception 4: Background Checks are Too Expensive for My Company in this Economy.
Any good background check company will consider itself a “partner” is their client’s success. Part of that success is providing a quality service at a price that will work for both parties.
Whether that means creating a “custom background check package” or simply providing one or two services, the Background Check company you choose should be willing and able to do so at a fair price.
You will find tips to Help You Choose the Best Background Check Company for You here!
The Background Check process should not surrounded by secrecy or misconceptions. The more we address these issues, and bring the entire process “into the light of day”, the better off we will be. After all, Background Check companies and their Clients are really all in this together!
Please Pay it Forward and Pass it On! And leave a comment, I would love to hear from You!
Authored by Kimberly Kline
Access Profiles, Inc. is a background check and due diligence screening company. API's focus is on the success of your Business.
We can help you navigate the world of background checks and guide you in making the best hiring decisions . We also specialize in Business Mentoring and Security Consulting. Please visit our Website and contact us for a Consultation or to find more tips on Surviving and Thriving in Your Business.
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Technical Writer and Editor
9 年Thanks for the good content Kim. I have some questions & concerns as a current job seeker who is also a victim of identity theft. When/How to we tell a potential employer about our complicated situation. Some facts may help: I found out when I filed my taxes this year and have taken appropriate steps to clean up a big mess. First, filing w/my local police dept., then FTC, getting copies of all credit reports and disputing inaccuracies. This is time consuming and frustrating to say the least. Then there is thee additional problem of managing one's online reputation that is also affected. I am @ a loss as when to disclose this to a hiring company since many do online searches before even requesting an interview. Has it come to the need to put a disclosure in a cover letter/resume/references so that your app doesn't get tossed because of online errors about your identity? I understand if I was agreeing to a background check after a good interview-would be most appropriate but what about online first impression etiquette and concern for integrity issues being lost before you can get in the door? Thanks for insight-anxious to get feedback!