Why Background Checks are Important

Depending on the scope and depth of the check, a background check for employment can reveal helpful information about a candidate. In this blog post, we cover why background checks are important.

Why Background Checks are Important

Here are several reasons why background checks are important:

Workplace Safety and Security

In discussing why background checks are important, workplace safety and security is worth mentioning first. Background checks can help you identify individuals with a history of violence, fraud, theft, or other criminal activities to minimize risks to the safety and well-being of your existing workforce and clients.

Cybersecurity and Confidentiality

Certain positions may involve access to sensitive information, trade secrets, or confidential data. Background checks are important because they can help ensure that only individuals with a trustworthy background are placed in roles where security and confidentiality are paramount.

Legal Compliance

Conducting background checks helps you comply with federal, state/provincial, and local laws and regulations such the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) in the United States and provincial legislation like the Police Record Checks Reform Act in Ontario. Certain industries and roles may have specific legal requirements for background screening, such as those involving vulnerable populations such as children or the elderly.

Immigration and Visa Compliance

In addition to the legal compliance noted above, background checks may be required when employers hire non-citizens to ensure compliance with immigration and visa regulations.

Adhere to Industry Standards

Many industries have established best practices and standards that recommend or require background checks as part of the hiring process. Adhering to these standards can enhance your organization’s credibility.

Protect of Vulnerable Groups

The reasons why background checks are important extend to protecting vulnerable populations. Checks and pre-screening is particularly important when hiring employees who work with vulnerable populations, such as children, elderly individuals, or people with disabilities. These checks help safeguard the well-being of these groups and prevent potential harm.

Protect Brand Reputation

Hiring individuals with a history of unethical behaviour can negatively impact your organization’s brand reputation. As we covered in this blog post on why background checks are essential, background checks are important because they help you avoid association with individuals who could potentially harm your company’s image.

Reduce Legal Liability

By conducting thorough background checks, you can demonstrate you’ve taken reasonable steps to ensure a safe and secure work environment. Background checks are important because they reduce legal liability and mitigate potential legal claims in case of incidents involving employees.

Verification of Qualifications

The importance of background checks is also highlighted in verifications. Background checks can include verification of education, employment history, professional licences, and certifications. This helps employers confirm that candidates possess the qualifications and experience they claim to have.

Collaborative employees at desk discussing why background checks are important

Prevent of Fraud and Internal Theft

Background checks, including public records check, can help identify candidates with a history of fraudulent activities. This is important when hiring for roles that involve financial responsibilities or access to company assets.

As we’ve hopefully convinced you, background checks are important because they provide you with additional information to make more informed hiring decisions and reduce the risk of hiring individuals who may not be suitable for the role. It’s important to note that while background checks are important, they must be conducted in a fair and non-discriminatory manner. This means following legal guidelines, being transparent with candidates, and obtaining background checks at appropriate times in the hiring process. Don’t worry, our experts can help with this.

Industry-Leading Background Checks

With our network of global partners and in-depth knowledge of why background checks are important, Certn offers industry-leading turnaround times to help you protect your organization from employee-related risk.

In addition to background checks, we can help you run: