When hiring new employees, conducting background checks is crucial to ensure candidates are trustworthy, qualified, and a good fit for your company. Many businesses face a common dilemma: Should they rely on a professional background screening provider or attempt to conduct background checks themselves?
The decision can be challenging, as both options have pros and cons. This article explores the differences between these two approaches and explains why background check companies might offer the most reliable solution for your business.
Difference Between Background Screening Providers vs. Do-It-Yourself
The primary difference between hiring a professional background check company and conducting a DIY background check lies in the depth and accuracy of the information you receive. Professional screening providers have the expertise, resources, and tools to conduct thorough background checks. They access a wide range of databases and use advanced technologies to ensure the accuracy of the information they provide.
- Professional Services: These companies have specialized teams dedicated to conducting background checks. They follow strict protocols and use verified sources to gather reliable and comprehensive information.
- DIY Background Checks: While it might seem cost-effective to handle background checks in-house, the process can be time-consuming and may result in incomplete or inaccurate information. DIY checks often rely on publicly available data, which may not be as thorough or up-to-date as the information obtained by professional services.
Are Background Checks Important for Employment?
Background checks are essential for the hiring process. They help employers verify a candidate’s resume, confirm their qualifications, and ensure no red flags could pose a risk to the company.
- Verification: Background checks allow employers to verify a candidate’s education, employment history, and other critical information, ensuring that the person you’re considering for the job has the experience and qualifications they claim to have.
- Safety: Conducting background checks helps employers identify potential risks, such as a history of criminal activity or substance abuse, which could impact workplace safety and productivity.
Reasons Why Companies Prioritize Background Checks
There are several reasons why companies prioritize background checks during the hiring process. These checks protect the company and help create a safe and productive work environment.
Results in Increased Productivity
Hiring the right employees can significantly impact your company’s productivity. Employees who are well-qualified and a good fit for the company culture are more likely to contribute positively to the workplace. Background checks help ensure that you bring in employees with the skills and experience needed to perform their jobs effectively.
- Reduced Turnover: When you hire the right people, they’re more likely to stay with the company long-term, reducing turnover and saving your company time and money on recruitment and training.
- Enhanced Performance: Employees who are a good fit for their roles are more likely to be engaged and motivated, leading to better performance and higher productivity.
Enhances Environmental Safety
Workplace safety is a top priority for any business. Background checks help identify candidates with a history of behavior that could pose a risk to the safety of your employees and customers.
- Criminal History: Background checks can reveal any criminal history that might indicate a potential safety risk. This is particularly important for positions that involve working with vulnerable populations or handling sensitive information.
- Substance Abuse: Some background checks include drug testing, which can help identify candidates who may have a history of substance abuse, which is crucial for maintaining a safe and productive work environment.
Hiring Professional Employees
One of the main benefits of conducting background checks is that they help you hire qualified, trustworthy, and reliable professional employees.
- Education Verification: Background checks confirm a candidate’s educational background, ensuring they have the qualifications needed for the job.
- Employment History: Verifying a candidate’s employment history ensures they have the experience required for the position.
Protects the Brand
Your company’s reputation is one of its most valuable assets. Hiring the wrong employees can damage your brand and lead to legal and financial consequences. Background checks help protect your brand by ensuring that you’re hiring employees who align with your company’s values and standards.
- Avoiding Scandals: Background checks help prevent scandals by identifying candidates with a history of unethical behavior. This is particularly important for high-profile positions where an employee’s actions can significantly impact the company’s reputation.
- Maintaining Trust: Hiring trustworthy and reliable employees helps maintain the trust of your customers, partners, and stakeholders, which is essential for building and sustaining a strong brand.
Important Characteristics of a Full-Service Background Screening Provider
When choosing a background check company, consider several key characteristics to ensure you get the best possible service.
Ensures Strict Legal Compliance
Legal compliance is crucial when choosing a background check company. The top providers rigorously follow laws such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) to ensure that all reports are accurate and legally sourced.
- FCRA Compliance: The FCRA outlines guidelines for conducting background checks. Reputable providers ensure all reports comply with these standards, protecting your business from legal issues.
- Data Accuracy: Legal compliance also means providing up-to-date, accurate information, helping prevent discrimination and ensuring fairness in the hiring process.
By selecting a provider committed to legal compliance, you can avoid potential legal pitfalls and maintain a fair hiring process.
Leverages Advanced Technological Resources
Technology is vital in the background check process. Background check companies use advanced tech resources to deliver accurate and efficient results.
- Automation: Automated systems help speed up the background check process and reduce human error, providing you with accurate information quickly.
- Database Access: Top providers can access extensive databases, including criminal records and education verification, ensuring comprehensive checks.
Delivers Rapid Turnaround Times
Timely hiring decisions are crucial. The best background check companies prioritize rapid turnaround times without compromising quality.
- Efficient Processes: Reputable providers use efficient processes and technology to complete background checks, helping you make hiring decisions quickly.
- Communication: Good providers keep you informed throughout the process, update you on the status, and deliver results promptly.
Protects Data Security and Privacy
Data security and privacy are critical in background checks. The background check companies focus on protecting candidates’ personal information.
- Encryption: Reputable providers use encryption to safeguard sensitive data during transmission and storage, ensuring it remains secure.
- Confidentiality: Providers should have strict confidentiality policies to protect candidates’ privacy, limiting access to sensitive information.
Conclusion
Using a professional background screening provider versus conducting DIY checks can significantly impact your business. While DIY checks may seem cost-effective, they pose risks due to incomplete or inaccurate information. The best background check companies offer a comprehensive, reliable solution, ensuring your hiring decisions are based on accurate data.
By focusing on legal compliance, advanced technology, rapid turnaround times, and data security, these companies help you build a strong and trustworthy team. Choose a provider that meets your needs and aligns with your business goals to ensure an effective and efficient hiring process.
