How to Get the Best Background Check: The Benefits of Comprehensive Screenings

As an HR professional, landlord, or even someone looking to hire a babysitter for your children, you understand the importance of safeguarding your company, property, and loved ones from potential risks. You may have heard of a background check or even conducted one in the past, but have you ever wondered what makes a background check “good” or “comprehensive”?

In this article, we will explore what a comprehensive background check entails, its benefits, and how to implement it in your hiring, rental, or personal screening process. By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of how background checks can help you mitigate risks and make informed decisions while being compliant with applicable laws and regulations.

What is a Background Check?

A background check is an investigation into a person's history that aims to identify potential risks, such as criminal activity or unfavorable behavior, relevant to the job or situation you are screening for. Background checks can include a range of screenings, such as criminal record checks, education and employment verification, credit history, driving records, and reference checks. The level of screening you conduct depends on your industry, company policies, and legal requirements.

The Importance of Comprehensive Screenings

While a criminal record check is a fundamental aspect of a background check, it alone does not paint a full picture of a person's history. A comprehensive background check can reveal often overlooked but significant indicators, such as employment and education discrepancies, financial stability, and driving records. These screenings can uncover red flags that may not be immediately apparent, ultimately safeguarding your company, property, or loved ones from liability, fraud, theft, or other potential risks.

For example, suppose you are hiring a financial advisor who will have access to sensitive information or funds. In that case, a comprehensive background check can reveal any past bankruptcies, liens, or judgments, indicating potential financial instability and, in turn, reduced risk for your company or clients. Similarly, as a landlord, you can screen potential tenants for previous evictions, unpaid debts, or criminal records, giving you peace of mind when renting your property.

How to Conduct a Comprehensive Background Check

Now that you understand the benefits of a comprehensive background check let's explore how you can implement it in your screening process.

1. Identify Relevant Screening Tools

Start by identifying which screenings are relevant to the job or situation in question. For example, if you are hiring a driver, you may want to conduct a driving record and drug screening. Alternatively, if you are screening a potential tenant, you might opt for a credit check and criminal record check.

2. Choose a Reputable Screening Provider

Once you have defined which screenings are necessary, it's time to choose a reputable screening provider that adheres to applicable laws and regulations. Be sure to review their service and pricing options, the process timeline, and their customer support availability.

3. Obtain Written Consent

Before conducting any screening, you must obtain written consent from the individual you are screening. This consent must be clear, conspicuous, and properly executed to be compliant with federal and state laws. Failure to obtain consent may result in legal consequences such as lawsuits or fines.

4. Conduct the Screening and Review Results

After receiving consent, the screening provider will initiate the screenings and produce a detailed report outlining their findings. Upon receiving the report, review it carefully, and consult with legal counsel if there are any disclosed records.

Addressing Objections

To avoid the potential legal consequences of improper screenings and to mitigate risks, some may argue that background checks are too intrusive or a violation of privacy. However, it's crucial to remember that comprehensive background checks are not only legal but necessary to maintain a safe and secure environment.

Compliance with federal and state laws is not optional when it comes to conducting background checks. Failure to properly screen individuals can result in exposure to civil or criminal liability, as well as reputational damage. Comprehensive background checks are part of a responsible and ethical screening process that helps companies and individuals make informed decisions that protect their interests.

Conclusion

In summary, a comprehensive background check is a necessary tool in mitigating risks and making informed decisions. While the screenings may appear intrusive or challenging, considering the benefits - risk mitigation, safeguarding, and compliance with the law - make them a necessary component of any screening process.

As an HR professional, landlord, or individual hiring a caregiver, if you are not conducting comprehensive background checks, you are exposing yourself, your company, and loved ones to potential risks. Therefore, taking steps to identify relevant screenings, choosing a reputable screening provider, obtaining written consent, and reviewing results is essential in mitigating risks and making informed decisions.

In conclusion, a thorough background check is not only recommended but necessary to mitigate potential risks and make informed decisions.