Background Checks

Background Checks

Reasons for Background Checks

A background check is the process of gathering criminal, commercial and financial information on an individual. When applying for a job, quite often a potential employer will request a background check. The amount of information included in a background check largely depends on the reason for requesting a check. For jobs that involve working with children, caring for others or are of high security, then a background check is a must. For example, teachers, doctors, pilots and government employees must all be background checked. Background checks usually reveal past employment verification, credit scores and any criminal history. A person seeking employment at a minimum wage job might not need such a thorough check.

In addition to pre-employment screening, a background check might be conducted for litigation, as part of due diligence, when children are involved, when in a relationship, or out of curiosity. At times, background checks are sometimes conducted for illegal purposes or unlawful discrimination.

Litigation: An attorney will conduct a background check to reveal evidence that can be used to attack a person's credibility, truthfulness and testimony. Background checks are also done on accusers or witnesses.

Part of Due Diligence: When buying a business or partnering with someone in a business, a background check should be done. You'll want to find out pertinent information on the person selling the business (or potential partner) and the business itself. By doing a background check, you're protecting the investment and the investors.

When Children are Involved: Schools are required to do background checks, but quite often parents will conduct background checks on their children's care givers (i.e. nanny, babysitter, traveling companion).

When in a Relationship: More and more, before saying "I do", people have a background check conducted on potential spouses. Whether it's through a database search or hiring a private investigator, clients want to know if there are any red flags. Especially with so much online dating, it's good to know the background of the other person.

Out of Curiosity: Suspicious about your neighbor? Been ripped off by a guy you hired to fix your roof? Many background checks have been conducted when something bad has happened.

Components of a Background Check

When a background check is conducted, some or all of the following information will be gathered:

Identity and address verification Gaps in employment history Employment references Character reference check Credit history Criminal record Driving records Education records Medical records Social security

Just as you're curious about other people, remember that people are curious about you. You won't necessarily know when a background check is being conducted on you!

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