A background check or background investigation is the process of looking up and compiling criminal, civil, commercial, educational, employoment, driving, military and financial records of an individual. The process also includes conducting interviews with the individual’s personal references and should include interviews with secondary level references which have been identified and developed by the investigator. The process must include interviews with the individual.
Background checks are often requested by employers on job candidates, especially on candidates seeking a position that requires high security or a position of trust , such as in a school, hospital, financial institution, airport, and government (including law enforcement and military) but are becoming more common-place with all employers. These checks are often used by employers as a means of objectively evaluating a job candidate's qualifications and to identify potential hiring risks. Background checks or investigations may also be conducted as a way to further differentiate potential employees and pick the one the employer feels is best suited for the position.
There are a variety of types of checks and investigative searches that can provide essential information. Investigators will actually perform the checks or investigations, supply the client with reports, and ensure compliance throughout the process. It is important to be selective about which background or pre-employment screening agency you use. A legitimate company will be happy to explain the process to you.
Many investigators choose to search the most common records such as criminal records, driving records, and education verification. More thorough searches such as sex offender registry, credential verification, skills assessment, reference checks, credit reports and Patriot Act searches are becoming increasingly common since the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and are tools of the most competent investigators. Clients should consider the reason for the check or investigation when determining which types of searche to include.
Background checks and investigations are frequently conducted to confirm information found on an employment applicatin or resume. Facts indicate that half of all reference checks done on prospective employees differed between what the job applicant provided and what the investigator reported.
As workplace violence becomes more of an issue, employers are becoming more concerned about the people they hire. Employers have an obligation to make sure their work environment is safe for all employees.
In the United States, the Bradt Bill requires criminal checks for those wishing to purchase handguns from licensed firearms dealers. Restricted firearms (like machine guns); suppressors, explosives or large quantities of precusor chemicals, and concealed weapons permits also require criminal checks.
Background checks or investigations are also required for those working in positions with special security concerns, such as trucking, ports of entry, and airlines. Other laws exist to prevent those who do not pass a criminal check from working in careers involving the elderly, disabled, or children.
Other reasons for conducting background checks or investigations include a former spouse's concern about the ex's new boyfriend/girlfiend, a soon to be married person who is having doubts about their potential new spouse, a family wishing to employee a nanny, a new cleaning person or company, or a new boyfriend or girlfriend who claims to be someone or something you have a problem with believing.