A Guide to Background Checks

A Guide to Background Checks

 For most job applications, interviewees are used to multiple interviews, aptitude tests, personality tests and more- but one aspect takes place behind the scenes: background screening. Also known as background checks, this is an important step that can dictate who gets hired. During the interview process, interviewers can request permission to perform background checks or can set background checks as a condition of employment. Companies cannot conduct background checks without the consent of the candidate.

 From a company’s perspective, background screening forms a crucial part of the recruitment process and can save businesses money. Background checks protect companies from untruthful or suitable applicants, and can often be more in-depth than job seekers expect. Here are some the background checks that recruitment agencies or employers can implement:

 Credit check

This is one type of background check that many job seekers are blithely unaware of. Prospective employers can request insights into your credit history. Credit checks are used to ascertain whether the candidate has a history of poor payments, loans or blacklistings due to poor financial decisions. This is especially crucial for positions where the candidate is in charge of handling money or has any say in financial decisions.

 Qualification check

Many employers will verify the authenticity of the applicant’s stated academic history, and can easily do so by making use of the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) database.

 Reference checks

Reference checks are the one type of background check that does not require prior consent. These are also the most common types of checks performed, and recruiters simply contact the references given by the applicant.

 Driver’s licence check

This screening merely ascertains whether the candidate is in possession of the driver’s licences he or she has claimed. A driver’s licence check is generally only applicable when the position in question requires the candidate to be able to drive. 

 Criminal record

Oftentimes the most important check- in the eyes of employers- is the criminal record check. This can be done via identity book or fingerprints, and companies may occasionally implement both.

Professional Sourcing is a top-tier South African-based recruitment agency operating internationally, IPM accredited, LEVEL 2 BEE RATED and 51% Black Owned.

 Our agency specialises in professional placements (senior and specialist talent) and exclusive skills recruitment to a wide range of industries, including JSE’s top 100 companies, SMEs and the Public Sector.