Definition
Background Processing or Background Check refers to the systematic investigation of a prospective employee’s history, typically conducted by management or a designated human resources department. This process involves reviewing personal references, employment history, criminal records, and sometimes financial records to ensure that candidates are qualified and suitable for the position they are being considered for. Although this process can be time-consuming and expensive, it plays a critical role in safeguarding the company’s interests and ensuring a trustworthy workplace.
Examples
- Employment Verification: Checking the work history and job titles claimed by a candidate in their resume.
- Education Verification: Ensuring that the educational qualifications claimed by the candidate are legitimate.
- Criminal Background Check: Reviewing any criminal records to assess potential risks to the organization.
- Reference Check: Contacting previous employers or personal references to gather insights about the candidate’s character and work ethics.
- Credit Check: Sometimes performed, especially for roles that involve financial responsibilities, to assess financial stability and trustworthiness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the purpose of a background check?
The primary purpose of a background check is to verify the information provided by a candidate and to ensure they have the qualifications and character suitable for the position, thereby minimizing risks to the company.
Typically, background checks include employment history, educational qualifications, criminal records, credit reports (for some positions), and sometimes social media profiles.
How long does a background check take?
The length of time for a background check can vary, but it typically takes between 3 to 10 business days, depending on the depth of the investigation.
Are background checks legal?
Yes, background checks are legal, but employers must comply with federal and state laws, including getting consent from the candidate and ensuring confidentiality of the results.
Can a candidate fail a background check?
Yes, a candidate can fail a background check if there are discrepancies in their information, criminal records, poor references, or other red flags identified during the investigation.
- Employment Verification: A component of the background check process that confirms a candidate’s past job titles, employers, durations of employment, and job duties.
- Criminal Record Check: A check that identifies any past criminal activities that the candidate may have been involved in.
- Credit Report Check: An examination of the candidate’s financial history to assess their financial responsibility and stability.
- Reference Check: Contacting previous employers or listed references to gather information about the candidate’s work behavior and character.
Online References
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Background Check Book: Outrunning the Past, Empower Your Future” by Lester Rosen
- “Employee Background Checks: Investigating Before Hiring” by Barry Jackson
- “Background Screening Primer: How to Protect Your Business by Using Background Checks” by Roy A. Reid Jr.
- “Careers at Risk: Background Screening Practices Critical to the Building of a Prevention Checklist Plan” by Evie Watts
Fundamentals of Background Processing: Human Resources Basics Quiz
### What is the main objective of background processing in the hiring process?
- [x] To verify the information provided by candidates and assess their suitability for the job
- [ ] To negotiate salaries before hiring
- [ ] To reduce training time
- [ ] To minimize interviewing costs
> **Explanation:** The main objective of background processing is to verify the accuracy of information provided by candidates and determine their qualifications and suitability for the job, ensuring the protection and integrity of the organization.
### Which aspect of a candidate’s history is NOT typically checked during a background processing?
- [ ] Employment history
- [ ] Educational qualifications
- [ ] Criminal records
- [x] Personal opinions and hobbies
> **Explanation:** While employment history, educational qualifications, and criminal records are commonly checked, personal opinions and hobbies generally are not part of the standard background check process.
### How long does a typical background check take?
- [ ] 1-2 business days
- [ ] 1 month
- [x] 3-10 business days
- [ ] 2 months
> **Explanation:** A typical background check usually takes between 3 to 10 business days, although the time frame can vary depending on the thoroughness required and the complexity of the checks.
### Which federal law regulates the use of personal information during a background check?
- [ ] The Equal Employment Opportunity Act
- [x] The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)
- [ ] The Occupational Safety and Health Act
- [ ] The Americans with Disabilities Act
> **Explanation:** The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) regulates the use of personal information during a background check, ensuring that candidates’ rights are protected.
### Can an employer conduct a background check without the candidate’s consent?
- [ ] Yes, if the position is high risk
- [ ] Yes, for entry-level positions
- [ ] Yes, for voluntary positions only
- [x] No, they must obtain the candidate’s consent
> **Explanation:** Employers must obtain written consent from the candidate before conducting a background check according to legal standards.
### Which of the following is a legal requirement for employers before conducting a background check?
- [ ] Notifying the local police department
- [x] Obtaining written consent from the candidate
- [ ] Publishing the intent in the local newspaper
- [ ] Consulting the candidate's family
> **Explanation:** Employers are legally required to obtain written consent from the candidate before conducting a background check to comply with privacy and employment laws.
### What should an employer check when verifying a candidate's education?
- [x] School attended, degrees obtained, and dates of attendance
- [ ] Personal school experiences
- [ ] On-campus activities
- [ ] School sports participation
> **Explanation:** Employers should verify the school attended, degrees obtained, and dates of attendance when conducting an education verification to ensure the candidate’s qualifications are valid.
### For which types of roles are credit checks most commonly performed?
- [ ] Administrative roles
- [ ] Creative roles
- [ ] Healthcare roles
- [x] Financial responsibilities roles
> **Explanation:** Credit checks are most commonly performed for roles with financial responsibilities to assess the candidate’s financial responsibility and stability.
### What information would typically disqualify a candidate in a criminal background check?
- [x] History of theft for a banking role
- [ ] Speeding tickets
- [ ] Minor overdue fines
- [ ] Neighbor disputes
> **Explanation:** A history of theft would typically disqualify a candidate for a banking role, as it presents a significant risk to the organization.
### What should a previous employer provide during a reference check?
- [ ] Personal details
- [x] Work performance and job conduct
- [ ] Medical history
- [ ] Expenditure details
> **Explanation:** A previous employer should provide information about the candidate’s work performance and job conduct during a reference check to gauge their suitability for the new role.
Thank you for exploring the complexities of background processing in the hiring process and participating in our sample quizzes to solidify your understanding!
