Seeking the perfect job candidate? Background checks aid in the process by helping you make an informed decision based on a thorough review of the person’s employment history. Even with detailed reports from a third-party background screening company, interpreting the results is challenging when you aren’t sure what to look for. Here’s how to interpret background check results so you find the right person for the job!
Components of a Background Check
Not all background check results are the same, and there is no comprehensive background check service available. That said, different kinds of checks concentrate on various components.
Criminal Records
Criminal activity in the candidate’s background may include charges, arrests, and convictions. Employers should look for patterns of behavior that indicate potential risks. Misdemeanors and felonies directly relevant to the business should be red flags. Background checks aid in sustaining a healthy company culture while maintaining safety and the bottom line.
Employment History
This type of background check verifies the candidate’s previous job titles, dates of employment, and reasons for leaving to ensure the candidate has the experience they claim to have.
Education Verification
Another obvious one, this inquiry confirms the candidate’s academic qualifications, such as degrees, certifications, credentials, seminars, and institutions attended and relevant to the position.
Credit Report
Are you offering a job with financial responsibilities, such as handling money, bank accounts, investments, and the like? A credit report provides insight into the candidate’s financial stability and reliability.
Driving Records
If you’re offering a position involving many hours on the road or transportation of people or materials, a clean driving record is a plus. Numerous and recent infractions, suspensions, violations, DUIs, accidents, and so on may suggest the person can’t be trusted behind the wheel.
Reference Checks
Want to get an idea of how people who worked with the candidate truly appreciate (or don’t) their work habits, communication skills, diligence, and punctuality? Reference checks will give the thumbs up or down.
Other Tips for Interpreting Results
Context
Never assume! Always confirm, and ask an otherwise qualified candidate to give their side of the story. A criminal record, for instance, may not disqualify them if the offense was minor, happened long ago, and has little relevance to how they’d perform the job.
Consistency
Is a candidate truthful in what they reveal about themselves, or do you notice holes in their story? Check for consistency in their history and education. Are there unexplained gaps in their resume? Does a past employer or school have no record of them? It might be an honest mistake or a sign they’re concealing something.
Adhere to Legal and Ethical Standards
Read up on the laws in your town and region, as well as federal laws regarding labor and hiring. Ensure your background check process complies with the laws and is consistent and fair. Be sure to vet your process with a lawyer if need be.
Now you know how to interpret background check results. Effective interpretation of background check results demands a balanced approach, context, and consistency to make informed hiring decisions!
