Glossary

What is a background check?

A background check, also known as a pre-employment screening, is a process employers use to verify a job applicant’s history and credentials. It involves gathering information from various sources such as public records, criminal databases, credit bureaus, and past employers to ensure a candidate meets job requirements and aligns with company values.

Types of background checks

Employers can conduct different types of background checks depending on the role and organizational needs:

• Criminal background checks: Review local, state, federal, and international criminal records to flag convictions or legal issues. These checks are especially important for roles involving vulnerable populations or sensitive data.
• Employment verification: Confirms a candidate’s work history, including job titles, responsibilities, and dates of employment, often through references and previous employers.
• Education verification: Ensures the candidate holds the degrees or certifications they claim, preventing unqualified hires.
• Credit checks: Assesses financial responsibility by reviewing credit history, which may be relevant for roles involving financial decision-making.
• Motor vehicle records: Verifies driving history, licenses, and violations for positions requiring driving.
• Professional licenses: Confirms certifications or licenses for specialized roles, such as medical or legal professionals.
• Social media checks: Examines public online activity to understand a candidate’s values and behavior, though care must be taken to avoid discriminatory practices.
• Drug testing: Screens for substance use where workplace safety is a priority.

How does a background check work?

To perform a background check, employers typically need the candidate’s:

• Full name
• Date of birth
• Social Security number (for US-based checks)
• Current or previous addresses
• Written consent

Employers use third-party background check providers or consumer reporting agencies to gather this information. These reports verify identity, employment history, education credentials, and any additional checks requested.

When are background checks conducted?

Background checks are usually performed after extending a conditional job offer, pending the candidate’s consent. In the US, employers must comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) by:

• Informing candidates of the intent to conduct a background check.
• Obtaining written authorization in a standalone document.
• Providing the candidate with a copy of the report and a summary of their rights if adverse action is taken based on the findings.

Why are background checks important?

Background checks help employers:

• Ensure workplace safety: Verify criminal history and qualifications to protect the team and company assets.
• Prevent negligent hiring: Avoid liability by ensuring candidates are fit for their roles.
• Build trust and transparency: Strengthen relationships with employees by demonstrating a commitment to hiring qualified individuals.
• Verify claims: Confirm the accuracy of resumes and applications to avoid costly hiring mistakes.

Legal considerations and best practices

Employers must follow federal and state laws when conducting background checks to avoid discrimination and ensure fairness. In the US, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) provides guidelines to prevent bias in hiring decisions. Documentation, confidentiality, and adherence to compliance frameworks are essential throughout the process.

Background checks are a vital tool for making informed hiring decisions, fostering trust, and maintaining workplace integrity. By conducting thorough and fair screenings, employers can build stronger, more reliable teams.