Are Background Check Results Always Correct?

Background checks serve a multitude of purposes in the business world as well as in everyday personal endeavors. They are useful tools for hiring companies to utilize because they provide employers with information that otherwise could be left out of the application process when looking through candidates. Although background checks can be vital to human resources managers when sifting through applications, it is possible that pertinent information may be left out of the background check that is critical to the decision-making process of whether or not to hire a particular candidate. If background checks are a part of the hiring process, it is important to know the source of the material and how to verify that the results are based on accurate knowledge.

Inaccurate entry of information

Background checks are vital to companies that are hiring because they help to eliminate risk and decrease the potential for legal issues regarding negligent hiring. Although an excellent resource when looking for potential employees, there is a lot of possibility for errors and left out information. Luckily, there are legal safeguards in place for companies that utilize background checks when such an occurrence arises. Common errors in background checks are often clerical in nature; the combination of human error and technological programs is usually responsible for incorrect data entries. While this can be detrimental to any particular applicant’s chances at obtaining employment, this can also pose unforeseen issues for the hiring company—they could be missing out on an excellent candidate that suffered from an inaccurate entry of information. Regardless, it is best to err on the side of caution when utilizing background checks; make sure to first double-check the source of the information and verify anything that will weigh heavy on the decision-making process.

Compiled information is dangerous

It is commonplace for background checks to be supplied by a third party that gets the pertinent information from an original source. Researching the reliability of the third party in addition to the original source is a good place to begin when verifying the integrity of the results used in hiring employees—it is not wise to take the information at face value, as this may be marginalizing candidates that are perfectly qualified for the position. When more than one source provides compiled information, the potential for error is multiplied. Human error and technical errors are inevitable and cannot only damage an individual’s potential for opportunity, but cause companies to create unequal opportunities to otherwise deserving candidates. Keeping these issues in mind when utilizing background checks is critical to the success of a business.

Identity theft

Another potential issue one may encounter when implementing background checks is the recently increased likelihood of identity theft. Despite the development of agencies that secure peoples’ identities, this is still a current issue that remains devastating to individuals around the globe. If relying on background checks for crucial information about future employees, one should be aware of all the potential scenarios in which a background check may be flawed. Although a less-than-desirable background check result may be an easy solution for weeding out competitive applicants, it is still important to remember that these are individuals who are eager to find employment, and may be a great fit for the company. Verifying background check results is a moral duty that could spare the company a future loss and gives each individual the respect they deserve when seeking opportunities for employment.

Final words

From a business standpoint, hiring new employees is best secured with stable techniques utilized in the process of screening candidates. However, while background checks provide employers with significant information that is helpful for the overall success of the business, it is best to utilize several different methods of hiring as background check results are not always accurate and often leave out pertinent information. Using a combination of background checks, drug testing, physical and psychological examinations, and thorough interviewing is a well-rounded approach to hiring reliable and trustworthy employees that will be an asset to the business. Overall, the benefits of background checks in a hiring process outweigh the risks involved; it is better to avoid potential threat. Making an informed decision when hiring new employees requires due diligence in verifying information—although helpful, a simple background check should never be one’s only source of knowledge.

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