Why do employers run background checks?

background check on you prior to employment. But why? Why do employers go through this process with potential employees (and current employees too, in some circumstances)? Here are four reasons as to why it’s an essential part of any hiring process for employers. Federal and state requirements For many companies, it is a requirement – either federal or state – to perform background checks on their staff. For example, any business that works closely with the federal government will require candidates to pass a background check. Or any position whereby the employee will be working closely with money or highly confidential information would also require background screening. Safety of vulnerable parties Any job that involves working with vulnerable parties will require background screening too. This could include working with children, the elderly or the disabled. Under the federal National Child Protection Act, businesses and public organizations are allowed, and often required, to run background checks on people who will be working closely with vulnerable members of society. Lawsuit protection Another reason an employer performs background checks is to protect themselves from a potential lawsuit. When something goes wrong with an employee, the business that hired him or her can often be held legally responsible for any damages. And if they had not done everything possible to be fully prepared for such situations (ie – perform checks to ensure an employee did not have a history to be wary of), they will likely end up paying out substantial amounts of money. False information A final reason an employer performs checks on their staff is to verify the information that the individual has supplied. For example, this will include verifying work history, education history, criminal records and preventing resume fraud. By running such a check, they can make sure that the applicant was truthful in the claims they made in their resume or in interviews. By running background checks for the above reasons, business owners are protecting their companies, themselves, and their current employees. They are well within their right to do everything they can to know who they are hiring, and you should ensure you are prepared for these employment checks.]]>