Background Check FAQ

A background check or screen is a term used to describe the compiling of information about a person from a range of records sources. In essence, looking into a persons background and reporting the findings.

As background screening is commonly performed for varying reasons, the checks themselves will also vary depending upon specific requirements. The criteria is usually set-out by the screening company in the way of standard packages or to suit specific industries. Tailored packages are also provided to suit individual companies needs and price considerations.

Some components that go into making up a report include criminal records, education verification, traffic history reports, employment records, professional licence and membership verifications, court actions, right to work and international checks where required. Some employers may also choose to undertake drug testing and psychological evaluations as part of the screening process.

Employers use background screening as one part of the decision making process when assessing potential candidates for jobs. They are compulsory to ensure compliance with laws in certain fields of employment, predominantly in areas that pose a potential hazard to public safety.

The primary reasons they are conducted is for safety, risk mitigation and asset protection. They are used to make informed decisions and ensure due diligence is performed to provide a level of protection in regards to a companies assets, image, its people and the public.

In some regards it’s getting easier to ask who is not, rather than who is. A background check is mandatory is certain fields and commonplace in many others. They are routinely performed on new recruits and existing employees, particularly in areas of working with the vulnerable and those with access to sensitive financial information or large sums of cash. Fields utilising services of screening companies include child care, health care, financial services, volunteers, home service providers, government departments, elderly care, transportation services, landlords and educational providers.

Many companies perform checks for management positions at a minimum and it’s becoming commonplace to screen all applicants.

One of the more common discrepancies found in resumes is in the way of educational qualifications. An employer wants to verify whether you did in fact attend the University or College you have listed, that you completed the degree or number of years stated, that you have put down the correct field of study and degree and that the Institution is able to provide such qualifications. A number of Universities now provide a direct service for qualification verification as the service becomes increasingly popular.

Providing false details on a resume and being caught out during fact checking can provide a basis for potential employers to exclude you from the process.

We do not offer the service of background checks at this time. There are a number of professional services listed and available to assist you should it be required.