The Importance of Background Checks

Performing background checks on candidates before extending offers of employment is a simple way to feel confident in hiring decisions. Ninety-two percent of employers perform at least a preliminary search of public records, according to HireRight’s 2015 Employee Background Screening Benchmark Report. Learn more about the importance of background checks when making hiring decisions:

Information Verification

There is a significant chance the employment experience or education provided by a candidate on their application isn’t accurate. Eighty-six percent of employers have found misrepresentations (such as not working at a place during the time listed or not actually completing a degree program) or outright lies after performing a background screening. Due diligence ensures the candidate possesses the requirements necessary to do the job.

Sensitive Data

Background checks are especially important when you’re hiring for positions that require access to sensitive data, such as financial records or personal information. A criminal background check can uncover any past behavior that may indicate the candidate should not be trusted with sensitive data (such as a conviction for fraud). Even a candidate with a clean criminal record who misrepresents themselves may demonstrate a lack of integrity that makes them incompatible for handling confidential information.

Workplace Morale

Performing background checks can reduce the likelihood of hiring candidates that have hidden red flags, such as anger issues, that can be disruptive to your other employees. Not properly vetting candidates before hiring them, and having multiple instances of bad hires can also make your team start to question your judgment and cause morale to decline.

Potential Liability

Extending an employment offer to a candidate without performing a background check can cost your business a lot of money, negative PR, or even potential lawsuits, if the decision ends up putting your employees or customers at risk somehow. Taking the time to make the most informed hiring decision possible, no matter how harmless the candidate seems, can prevent negatively impacting your organization and end up being a worthwhile investment.

Work with a trusted and experienced staffing firm like Professional Alternatives to get qualified and properly vetted candidates. Since 1998, we have been serving Houston employers by locating candidates that meet the unique skills and qualifications necessary for a successful fit. Contact us today to learn more about our employer services.