Answering the Most Common Questions About Background Verification!
Published – 20th September 2024 – 2 minute read.
InteleScreen
For HR leaders or managers looking to implement a background check process, there are often key questions to address. This guide aims to clarify some of the most frequently asked questions regarding employee background checks and verifications.
- What information is typically included in a background check?
Background checks can vary depending on the purpose, workforce, and scope, but typically, they include the following details:
- Criminal history
- Identity validation
- Residence verification (both current and permanent)
- Employment history
- Education credentials
- Drug test results
Did You Know?
InteleScreen offers over 25 customizable checks for onboarding employees or contractors, ensuring flexibility and coverage for any use case.
- What are the legal requirements for conducting background checks on candidates?
Before conducting a background check, employers must obtain the candidate’s consent and communicate the check’s nature and scope. The information gathered during this process must remain confidential and used solely to assess the candidate’s job suitability. In India, employers must comply with data protection laws, including the Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDP Act) of 2023.
Did You Know?
InteleScreen’s platform supports multiple organizations across verticals and completed verification across India.
- How long does a background check take, and what is the process?
The time required for a background check depends on the types of checks conducted, the responsiveness of references, and the availability of records. Traditional background checks can take from a few hours to a couple of weeks. However, some digital verifications can be done almost instantly.
Did You Know?
InteleScreen’s platform allows for a comprehensive background check of key parameters in less than a day. You can get a live demo by clicking here.
- What information is uncovered during a background check, and how is it used in the hiring process?
A background check has two main goals: to confirm the accuracy of the information provided by the candidate (such as employment and education history) and to reveal any previously undisclosed details, like a criminal record, loan defaults, or drug use.
When the information provided by the candidate is not verified, or new details emerge, it may pose a potential risk to the employer.
Did You Know?
Background verification failures occur in 1-3% of cases, depending on the industry. These failures often result from candidates providing false or incomplete information during the verification process.
- What happens if negative information is discovered during the background check?
If a background check reveals issues such as a criminal record or discrepancies in the provided information, employers must assess the nature, severity, and relevance of the findings to the job role. If the information indicates potential risks to the organization, the employer may choose not to proceed with the hiring.
However, every organization should have a clear policy in place. It’s recommended to follow due process, giving candidates the opportunity to explain or dispute the findings. Employers should also ensure that they comply with all legal requirements and industry best practices when making hiring decisions.
Conclusion
Conducting a background verification is a crucial step in the hiring process, ensuring the accuracy and honesty of the information provided by candidates. It also helps organizations reduce risks. By addressing these common questions, we hope to provide guidance for both employers and job seekers. A thorough, fair background verification process leads to better hiring outcomes for everyone involved.
InteleScreen, awarded as a top 10 most promising company is a leading ISO-certified background verification platform headquartered in Bangalore, India. To experience a free demo of the InteleScreen platform, contact us at info@Intelescreen.com or call us at +91 81970 13120.
