The information included in a pre-employment background check depends on the job the applicant is applying for. Employers that are looking for someone to fill a position for a receptionist would usually be concerned with making sure that the job seeker’s resume was accurate and that they have not been convicted of a serious crime that would make the a danger in the work place. Hiring managers looking for a CFO would likely order a much more intricate report, paying special attention to such things as the applicant’s financial history. Some of the elements that can be included in a work-related background check include:
Criminal Records: This part of the background check tells employers about all of an applicant’s past run-ins with the law, as long as the law does not prohibit the inclusion of certain charges. Employers often utilize their county records for this type of investigation, but state and even national databases can be used.
Employment History: Many businesses double check with an applicants past employers. This helps to make sure that the job seeker has had the responsibilities at past workplaces that they claim to have had and that they received the salaries they report.
Litigation Records: Hiring managers often like to know if a job seeker has sued past employers. Since some individuals make a habit of taking legal action without cause, businesses often try to avoid workers who have frequently been involved in this sort of lawsuit.
Educational reports: Some job seekers have been known to claim to have degrees or other certifications that the do not posses. In order to avoid hiring a worker who can not perform the responsibilities of the position in question, employers often make sure that all information is correct on the resumes submitted.
Driving History: If the position in question will require that the employee drive while on the clock, employers will almost always check with their local Department of Motor Vehicles and the Department of Transportation to make sure the applicant is a safe driver.
Drug Tests: In order to avoid paying high workers’ compensation insurance, employers often test applicants to make sure that they are not using illegal substances.
Financial Records: If the job will involve handling large sums of money, employers often investigate applicants’ credit scores, liens and bankruptcy records. The thought behind this is that, if the worker can not handle their own finances, why should they be trusted with company funds?
Other things that an employer may look into before hiring an applicant include licensing records and history of military service. For some government jobs or other high-security positions, applicants may have to consent to allow employers to view their medical and mental health records or interview the job seekers acquaintances.
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