Using Background Check Databases Responsibly

When evaluating a candidate for potential employment, a background check is an essential part of the process. Criminal background checks, credit report checks, employment verification and education verification all help hiring managers make an informed decision. During the process, they will be privy to confidential information about the applicant. Handling this information with sensitivity and discretion is the responsible thing to do for your business.

Legality

Irresponsible use of databases can result in legal complications. For example, there are several provisions you must take when you conduct a credit report check. You must be compliant with the Fair Credit Reporting Act, a federal act used to prevent the mishandling credit information. Many states and jurisdictions have a law limiting who you can run a credit report on. They are limited to upper management, law enforcement, positions where they are privy to confidential information and more. Once the report is completed, the companies may not retain any confidential information. Before conducting a credit report, research your state’s laws regarding it.

Criminal Background Check

A criminal background check is a great defense against a potential bad hire. In the business world, reputation is of the utmost importance. Your employees represent your business. Having an employee with skeletons in his or her closet can cause some great damage to your reputation. Conducting a background screening will help you bypass any of this embarrassment. Once you finish the report, you can now choose whether you want to advance to the next stage of the hiring process or not. Regardless of what decision you make, you still must handle this newfound information with sensitivity. The information should never be used for defamation or invading their privacy. Once you are finished with it, it should be promptly destroyed before it can land in the wrong hands. Operating with a sense of professionalism will help uphold your company’s sterling reputation.

Conclusion

Background screening can highlight any red flags and help you narrow down that ideal choice. TruDiligence will conduct screening services such as criminal checks, credit reports and more for your potential employees and tenants. Let TruDiligence help you find the right candidate.