If you run a small business, you know that each employee is critical to the company’s success. This is why it is essential to hire the best people possible for each position. One of the ways that you can hire qualified applicants and prevent potential problems is by conducting background checks on prospective employees. Here are some tips to help your small business conduct background checks in an effective and fair way.
Follow a Consistent Background Check Policy
One of the most important things to keep in mind is that the background check process needs to be applied consistently to everyone, regardless of age, gender, race, religion, disability, or any other protected characteristic. A criminal record or financial problem cannot be used as a reason to exclude one person from employment when a similar record is not the basis for excluding another person from a different group. If you apply your background check process inconsistently, you can be sued for discrimination.
Follow Federal, State, and Local Laws
Make sure your company complies with all federal, state, and local laws related to background checks. The federal Fair Credit Reporting Act applies to background checks conducted across the country. Some areas have passed “ban the box” laws that prohibit questions about criminal histories, and others limit the use of credit reports in hiring decisions. Make sure you know the law and follow it.
Get Permission before You Conduct Background Checks
Applicants must be informed about the use of background checks in the hiring process. You must provide them with information on the records to be collected and how that information may be used in decisions related to hiring, promotion, retention, and firing. You must receive written consent before conducting a background check on a job applicant.
Hire a Background Check Company
Conducting a thorough background check requires sifting through records from multiple sources. It can be confusing if several people have the same name or if a job applicant lived in multiple states with different laws. A professional background check company can help you gather all relevant records and make sure you comply with all laws.
DataCheck has helped many small businesses owners all over the United States conduct pre-employment background checks so they could make informed hiring decisions. Conducting background checks can help you choose responsible and reliable employees and can also help you avoid potential negligent hiring lawsuits. DataCheck can conduct thorough background checks and help you make sure you comply with all relevant laws. Contact us today to learn more.