Are Background Checks Effective?

Are Background Checks Effective?

When prospective clients are thinking about background screening , they often ask, “Are Background Checks Effective?” the effectiveness of background checks. This articles aims to address this question provide detailed insights into the efficacy of background checks.

The Effectiveness of Background Checks

Background checks are a pivotal tool in the hiring process, providing employers with critical information that can influence hiring decisions. Specific examples of their effectiveness include identifying candidates with a history of criminal activity that could pose a risk in the workplace, verifying educational and professional credentials to ensure qualification for a position, and uncovering any discrepancies in an applicant’s resume. These measures not only enhance workplace safety but also contribute to higher quality hiring decisions.

Why Employers Run Background Checks

Employers implement background checks for a multitude of reasons, supported by compelling statistics:

  1. Safety and Compliance: A primary motivation for conducting background checks is to ensure the safety of employees and customers and to comply with industry regulations. Studies have shown that background screenings can significantly reduce the risk of workplace violence.
  2. Quality of Hire: Background checks are instrumental in verifying the credentials of potential hires, ensuring they meet the qualifications for the job. According to a survey by the Professional Background Screening Association, 74% of employers believe background checks uncover information not provided by applicants, leading to more informed hiring decisions.
  3. Reduce Turnover: By verifying the accuracy of an applicant’s resume, background checks can help employers make hires that are a better fit for the company, thereby reducing turnover rates. A study has indicated that 85% of employers found lies on a resume, a factor that can significantly impact employee retention if not addressed.

How Background Checks Work

The background check process involves several steps:

  1. Consent: Obtaining consent from the applicant is a critical first step, ensuring compliance with legal standards.
  2. Collection: Information is collected from various sources, both public and private.
  3. Verification: The information obtained is then verified for accuracy.
  4. Reporting: A comprehensive report is compiled, detailing the findings of the background check.

Background checks typically cover a seven-year history, though this can vary based on the type of check and legal requirements.

What Shows Up

The results can include criminal records, verification of employment and education, driving history, and any discrepancies found between the report and the applicant’s provided information. These findings provide employers with a comprehensive view of the candidate’s background, aiding in the decision-making process.

Conclusion

To answer the question, “Are background checks effective?”—yes, they are a vital part of the hiring process, enhancing safety, ensuring compliance, and contributing to better hiring decisions. For organizations seeking a reliable background screening partner, EDIFY Background Screening offers the expertise, technology, and compliance knowledge to conduct efficient and affordable investigations. We encourage prospective clients to reach out and learn how we can assist in making your hiring process both thorough and compliant. Partner with EDIFY Background Screening to leverage our experience and technology for your background investigation needs.

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