What types of information can I uncover about potential employees by conducting a background check?
Background checks confirm the validity and accuracy of the information provided by potential employees in resumes, applications, and interviews. Specifically, employers can find out the following: • Criminal records: since past behavior is the best predictor of future behavior, criminal record checks can help identify employees that may be a threat to the company. Most states only show records of criminal behavior if the applicant was convicted of the crime. • Sex offender searches: used primarily for positions that require interaction with children, this form of background checks searches the Nationwide Sex Offender Registry, which includes sex-offender records provided by each state. • Employment records: used to verify dates of employment, position and salary history. This type of verification can also provide information regarding the prospective employee’s overall job performance and past behavior. • Education records: verify an applicant’s dates of attendance, grades, and degree
