Whether you are looking to hire someone new or want to prevent violence in your workplace, conducting background checks on applicants is critical. These checks can help you verify employment and education credentials, conduct drug tests, investigate social media, and prevent violence in your workplace.
Verify employment and education
Obtaining educational and employment background checks is an innovative and necessary step for any company looking to hire a new employee. This is especially important for positions that involve public exposure. The information can help employers avoid hiring individuals who have yet to earn their credentials or are making false claims about their education. A thorough background check can prevent fraudulent hiring practices and protect an employer from legal action. Several companies offer services for background checks. These include professional license verification, education background checks, and work history background checks. An education background check can verify an applicant’s degree, major, graduation date, and program of study. It can also confirm whether or not the candidate has attended a particular institution. In addition, some companies may require that the candidate provide an official transcript from their school. The information can also be verified manually by an HR team member. This may save time and resources, especially if it is pertinent to the position for which the candidate is applying. Some educational institutions may prohibit access to student records. If so, the verification process may be slower and less accurate. For a more reliable result, use a third-party service. Third-party companies can verify an applicant’s education for a small fee. These services usually check with the institution’s registrar to ensure correct information.
Prevent violence in the workplace
Having a background screening program for employees is one of the best ways to prevent violence in the workplace. This program should include a Criminal History Check, extended employment verifications, and professional references. In addition to conducting a background screening, employers must establish workplace policies to eliminate workplace violence. A workplace violence policy should define the workplace, prohibit acts of violence from any source, and explain procedures for reporting incidents. In addition, employers should have well-trained HR staff to deal with any issues. These workers are often on the front lines of personal safety. For example, an employee may contact the local authorities if they cannot handle an incident.
Workplace violence is an emotional issue. It affects all employees and affects the entire organization. It can lead to a loss of productivity and affects public relations for the employer. In addition, it can lead to physical and psychological repercussions for victims. If an employee feels that their workplace is unsafe, they should notify their supervisor. They should also consult with Employee Assistance Program (EAP) counselors. An EAP can provide free counseling sessions, legal advice, financial advice, and more. It can also set up onsite counseling for workers.
Investigate social media
Performing a social media investigation for employment background checks is a wise move. It allows employers to glean valuable insights about candidates without talking to them. For example, a social media investigation could provide details about the subject’s past, including their work ethics and personal beliefs. In addition, the process could reveal a red flag that threatens a company’s brand. There are several reasons why conducting a social media investigation may be the best choice for employers. Most importantly, employers will learn about the person’s personal beliefs and attitudes without interacting with them. Another benefit of a social media investigation is that it may provide insight into a person’s recent or previous criminal history. Information about a person’s criminal record is essential because it can give insight into their frame of mind. An excellent social media investigation can also provide information about a person’s age, ethnicity, and sexual orientation. These details help determine whether a candidate will fit in with a company’s culture. There are several different types of social media investigations, each of which has its benefits. For example, a social media investigation can reveal whether a person is bullying or harassing someone else. In addition, if the person has been involved in an accident or injury claim, the information gathered from a social media investigation may help demonstrate the claim’s validity.
Conduct drug tests
Whether you are a new employer or an existing company, it is essential to conduct drug tests as part of employment background checks. This will help you make the most effective hiring decisions. It will also protect you from the negative consequences of employee substance abuse. Drug tests are conducted on urine, hair, and saliva samples. In addition, blood and prescription drugs may be tested. Employers should consult with legal counsel before implementing a drug testing program. The drug screening policy should address specific types of tests, substances to be tested for, and prohibited actions. It should also discuss the confidentiality of test results. Depending on the type of business, the testing requirements may vary. The policy should also address employee support. For example, employers should provide information about the drug screening process, including how applicants can request a retest, the consequences of a positive test, and how to report drug use. Employers who conduct pre-employment drug tests must adhere to federal and state laws. They must also follow the Fair Credit Reporting Act. Random drug testing can help to deter current employees from using drugs. Ongoing random testing can also diminish drug-related mistakes and accidents.