Your company has decided to run background checks on your employees in Western New York. That seems like a good plan. However, you may be wondering, “What exactly will a background check tell me?”

Usually, the phrase background check is used broadly. While in reality, you’ll receive different information depending on the types of screenings you choose. Here’s a brief overview of the possibilities.

Background Checks May Include…

Criminal Activity

When most people hear the words background check, they automatically think of criminal record searches. Criminal record searches involve a legal investigation into someone’s past. They can be completed at the federal, national, state or county level. This type of screening may uncover felony convictions such as manslaughter, misdemeanor convictions such as vandalism and infractions such as disturbing the peace. Often, sex offender registry searches are included in, or can be added to, a criminal record search. The data provided by criminal record searches helps you to keep your customers and employees safe, prevent theft, maintain your organization’s reputation and avoid negligent hiring lawsuits.

Driving Records

Driving record checks or motor vehicle record searches will confirm the status of someone’s driver’s license (valid, suspended, expired) and the license class. Additionally, Motor Vehicle Reports (MVRs) record felony and misdemeanor convictions such as a DWI as well as moving violations, suspensions and restrictions. If your employees operate company-owned vehicles, a driving record check can be a smart safety precaution. For many commercial driving positions, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires motor vehicle record searches.

Financial Background

Credit reports show a person’s open lines of credit, outstanding balances, auto or student loans, foreclosures, late or missed payments, collection accounts and bankruptcies. But, keep in mind, a credit report generated for employment purposes does NOT reveal someone’s credit score. Many businesses only run credit checks on employees who are in financial roles or who have access to other people’s money. Nevertheless, credit reports can provide insight into any potential hire’s character and decision-making abilities.

Qualifications

Unfortunately, sometimes candidates exaggerate or outright lie about their skill set. In fact, according to a recent survey, thirty percent of people admitted to bending the truth on their resume. (Ladders, 2020) Obviously, you want the MOST qualified people working for your organization. Therefore, background checking services like academic verification and professional license verifications can guarantee the credentials of your team.

Employment History

A candidate may tell you they were a superstar at their last job. But is this true? Employment verification double checks a person’s work history, while reference checks allow you to learn more about their actual on-the-job performance.

Is Your Organization Interested in Running Background Checks in Western New York?

As WNY’s leading pre-employment screening service, Metrodata Services would be happy to help you make the best-possible hiring decisions. We’ll work with your company to develop a customized background check process to meet your business’s needs. Learn more about all Metrodata has to offer today!