When an employer is considering hiring a new employee, they will often hire an employment screening company to conduct a background check. This is to ensure that the potential employee does not have any criminal history that would make them unsuitable for the position. Several different types of background checks can be conducted, but some are more common than others. In this article, we will discuss the most common type of background check and what it tells employers about potential employees.
Identity Verification
An identity verification background check is a common type of search that employers and background check companies use to verify the identity of their potential employees. The goal here is to ensure that the employee does not have any aliases or fraudulent names listed on file with other government agencies. Individuals who have fraudulent names may be trying to hide something from their past or otherwise avoid responsibility for some reason. Employers want to ensure that they are hiring only honest individuals who have nothing to hide in their records especially when business is involved. Employee fraud and misconduct may be the cause of up to 30% of business failures, according to the US Chamber of Commerce.
Credit Check
A credit check is another common type of background check that employers use. This type of check will reveal any past financial problems that the potential employee may have had. This information can help determine whether the individual is likely to be reliable and responsible when it comes to their job duties.
National Criminal Database and Sex Offender Search
These two searches are generally conducted together by background check companies. The purpose of these searches is to identify any potential red flags that may exist with the potential employee considering how workplace violence and other crimes have become a growing concern for employers. This could include anything from a past conviction of assault to being listed as a sex offender.
Drug Testing
Many employers also conduct drug screenings as part of their background check process. An employment screening company will conduct the test to look for illegal drugs, prescription drugs, and alcohol in the potential employee’s system. It is important to note that this type of screening may be limited by state law or other regulations depending on where you live.
Education Verification
This search will verify whether an applicant has received a specific degree from an accredited university. This can help determine whether the individual has the proper education for a position that requires it.
Motor Vehicle Records Search
This search is often conducted to ensure that the applicants will be safe to have behind the wheel of a company vehicle. It will reveal any past traffic violations or accidents that the individual may have been involved in.
The bottom line
As you can see, there are several different types of background checks that employers can conduct. While not all these searches will be relevant for every position, they provide a snapshot into an individual’s history and could help to inform an employer’s decision about whether to hire them.
