4 Tips for Running Background Checks

Maybe you want to vet a job applicant before you hand over the keys to your business. Maybe you just want to make sure that there are no skeletons in the closet of your daughter’s new boyfriend. Whatever the reason for your interest in background checks, here are four tips for getting them done.

1. Check Multiple Databases

Some people are surprised to learn that there isn’t one big database for background checks. You’ll need to search multiple databases from multiple sources to get a truly well-rounded picture of your job applicant. A good rule of thumb is to start locally; look into county records and city registries before moving on to national information systems. You can also check out brands like Intelius to get more information. They can serve as NY White Pages to get you started with your research.

2. Do Your Homework

How many felony convictions were handed out in your state in the last year? If you hire a felon, what kind of legal restrictions will they face? Is there any kind of work that they won’t be allowed to do? Will you receive any special incentives for bringing them on board? Can they get their record sealed so that it won’t reflect badly on your company? These are all questions that you’ll want to ask before you officially put a felon on the payroll.

3. Perform Different Checks

Some employers only bother with a criminal background check to make sure that they aren’t hiring a fugitive. However, there are many other background checks that you can perform. You can look for someone’s employment history and credit history. You can check their driving record. You can check their references. It’s up to you to decide which background checks will help you understand a candidate’s suitability for the job, but make sure that you know all of your options.

4. Look for Specific Transgressions

This is especially important if your work involves sensitive material. If they have a history of cybercrimes, you don’t want to hire them to deal with your online customer accounts. If they’ve been charged with any kind of domestic abuse, they probably shouldn’t be working with children. Don’t be afraid to get specific with your background checks; you’ll want to know without a doubt if an applicant can be trusted with your work.

These are just a few things to keep in mind as you run or prepare for background checks. You’ll need to be thorough with your investigations if you want to be confident with your final results, so take your time. Do it right. Run background checks that give you a full picture of the person in question.