Here’s the truth about background checks and how they can help you hire right
While there is a lot to consider when screening applicants, the process doesn’t have to be difficult. On the contrary, it can be quite straightforward if you work with a highly qualified and reputable company. To help you, we’ve put together a list of the most common myths about background checks and why they’re just that.
Myth #1: There’s a giant, all-knowing database
The reality: Many employers believe in a mythical national database that has all the information you’d ever need or want about a potential employee. The reality is, no such database exists. And while there is an abundance of information to be gained through background screenings, it takes expertise to know what to look for and where to look for it.
Myth #2: Background checks can cause legal issues
The reality: While there are legalities to what you can see and what information you can use to make your hiring decisions when it comes to background checks, professional companies are well aware of the regulations and it’s their job to work within them. The truth is that the issues that may arise from not running one and hiring the wrong person are much riskier.
Myth #3: All background checks offer the same information
The reality: While verification of identity, social security and date of birth is standard, not all background screenings offer the same information and it’s important to look for the information that pertains to the position you’re attempting to fill. Criminal checks, driving records, education and employment history, medical history and other information can be gained when running a background check, and the amount of diversity of the information you get depends on what you ask for.
Myth #4: Background check companies are all the same
The reality: A big misconception that many small businesses accept is that all background check companies provide the same level of service or quality of information. This is not only untrue, it can cause you to choose a company that doesn’t do comprehensive checks or offer accurate and timely results. When choosing a provider, it’s best to do your homework and find one that not only adheres to the FCRA guidelines, but also has earned a reputation as a leader in the industry.
Myth #5: My company is too small to need background checks
The reality: The smaller your business is, the more risky a bad hire can be. The potential for losing tens of thousands of dollars is real and damaging to companies of any size, but especially small ones who depend on their business for their livelihoods. Running a background check gives you the peace of mind that even if you only have 5 employees, they are ethical, have the experience and education they claim to and can be a great asset to your company.
Myth #6: I can get all the same information online
The reality: While the advent of technology has given us access to more information than every before, there’s no guarantee that the information you’re seeing is accurate or up-to-date. You can also put yourself at risk for lawsuits when using the “unofficial” information you find online.
Myth #7: Background checks are too expensive
The reality: Engaging a background check service to handle your screenings for all your hiring is not only immensely valuable—it will save you money in the long run. A recent CareerBuilder study showed that companies can lose more than $50,000 when they make a bad hire, including the cost of recruiting, training, low team morale and extra pay for overtime to those who have to pick up the slack.
Myth #8: I can easily spot a dishonest or troublesome applicant
The reality: While you may think that behavioral issues and dishonesty would be obvious during an interview, the truth is many people are gifted in the act of deceit. And even if they aren’t, remember that expression, “You never really know someone until you live with them”. A short interview is not enough to determine if someone is on the up and up. This belief is the reason that 30% of small businesses fail as a result of company theft (U.S. Chamber of Commerce). A background check is the only way to know for sure if your applicant is the right fit.
After reviewing these common myths, it should be clear just how important background checks are and why more and more businesses are implementing them in their hiring processes. Have your screening and selection process reviewed by our team at no cost to ensure that you’re hiring only the best people for your company.