When it comes to hiring new employees, many companies conduct background checks or screenings to ensure they are making the best hiring decisions. However, the terms “background check” (BC) and “background screening” (BS) are often used interchangeably, leading to confusion about what each process entails. In this article, we will explore the differences between a BC and a BS, and why they are both important for employers.
What is a Background Check?
A BC is a process of verifying an individual’s personal, professional, and criminal history. This can include checking for any criminal records, employment history, education, credit history, and driving records. Background checks are typically conducted by a third-party company hired by the employer.
Why Are Background Checks Important?
Background checks are important for employers because they help ensure the safety and security of their workplace. By conducting a BC, employers can identify any potential red flags or risks associated with a candidate that may not have been disclosed during the hiring process. This can include criminal records, falsified education or employment history, or a poor credit history.
Background checks also help employers make informed hiring decisions and protect their company’s reputation. By thoroughly vetting candidates, employers can avoid hiring individuals who may not be a good fit for the company culture or who may pose a risk to the company’s success.
What is Included in a Background Check?
The specific information included in a BC can vary depending on the employer’s needs and the type of job being applied for. However, some common elements that may be included in a BC are:
- Criminal records: This can include any convictions or pending charges at the county, state, or federal level.
- Employment history: Employers may verify a candidate’s previous employment, job titles, and dates of employment.
- Education history: Employers may verify a candidate’s education credentials, such as degrees or certifications.
- Credit history: This can include a credit report, which shows a candidate’s credit score, payment history, and any outstanding debts.
- Driving records: This is important for jobs that require driving, such as delivery drivers or truck drivers.
What is a Background Screening?
A BS is a more comprehensive process than a BC. It involves not only verifying an individual’s personal and professional history but also assessing their character and behavior. This can include evaluating a candidate’s social media presence, conducting interviews with references, and performing drug tests.
Why Are Background Screenings Important?
Background screenings are important for employers because they provide a more in-depth look at a candidate’s character and behavior. This can help employers determine if a candidate is a good fit for their company culture and if they possess the necessary qualities and skills for the job.
Background screenings also help employers identify any potential risks or red flags that may not have been revealed during the hiring process. This can include a candidate’s online presence, which can provide insight into their behavior and character outside of the workplace.
What is Included in a Background Screening?
Similar to background checks, the specific elements included in a BS can vary depending on the employer’s needs and the type of job being applied for. However, some common elements that may be included in a BS are:
- Criminal records: This can include any convictions or pending charges at the county, state, or federal level.
- Employment history: Employers may verify a candidate’s previous employment, job titles, and dates of employment.
- Education history: Employers may verify a candidate’s education credentials, such as degrees or certifications.
- Credit history: This can include a credit report, which shows a candidate’s credit score, payment history, and any outstanding debts.
- Driving records: This is important for jobs that require driving, such as delivery drivers or truck drivers.
- Social media screening: Employers may review a candidate’s social media profiles to gain insight into their behavior and character outside of the workplace.
- Reference checks: Employers may conduct interviews with a candidate’s references to gather information about their character and work ethic.
- Drug testing: This can include urine, hair, or saliva tests to detect the presence of drugs or alcohol in a candidate’s system.
What is the Difference Between a Background Check and a Background Screening?
The main difference between a BC and a BS is the level of depth and detail involved. A BC typically focuses on verifying an individual’s personal and professional history, while a BS delves deeper into their character and behavior.
Another difference is the purpose of each process. Background checks are primarily used to ensure the safety and security of the workplace, while background screenings are used to assess a candidate’s overall fit for the job and company culture.
Why Do Employers Conduct Background Checks and Screenings?
Employers conduct background checks and screenings for several reasons, including:
- To ensure the safety and security of the workplace: By conducting background checks and screenings, employers can identify any potential risks or red flags associated with a candidate that may pose a threat to the workplace.
- To make informed hiring decisions: Background checks and screenings provide employers with valuable information about a candidate’s personal and professional history, allowing them to make informed hiring decisions.
- To protect their company’s reputation: By thoroughly vetting candidates, employers can avoid hiring individuals who may not be a good fit for the company culture or who may damage the company’s reputation.
- To comply with legal requirements: Some industries, such as healthcare and finance, are required by law to conduct background checks and screenings on potential employees.
What Jobs Require Background Checks and Screenings?
While background checks and screenings are commonly associated with jobs in law enforcement or government agencies, they are becoming increasingly common in other industries as well. Some jobs that may require background checks and screenings include:
- Healthcare professionals: Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals are often required to undergo background checks and screenings to ensure the safety of patients.
- Financial professionals: Jobs in the finance industry, such as bankers and financial advisors, may require background checks and screenings to protect against fraud and embezzlement.
- Education professionals: Teachers, coaches, and other education professionals may undergo background checks and screenings to ensure the safety of students.
- Transportation workers: Jobs that involve driving, such as truck drivers and delivery drivers, may require background checks and screenings to ensure the safety of others on the road.
- Government employees: Jobs in government agencies, such as law enforcement and military positions, often require background checks and screenings to ensure the safety and security of the country.
How Can I Find Background Check and Screening Services Near Me?
If you are an employer looking to conduct background checks or screenings, there are several options available to you. You can search for BC and screening services near you, or you can use online services that allow you to conduct background checks and screenings remotely.
One popular background screening service is The Screening Source, LLC.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the terms “background check” and “background screening” are often used interchangeably, they are two distinct processes with different purposes. A BC focuses on verifying an individual’s personal and professional history, while a BS delves deeper into their character and behavior. Both are important for employers to ensure the safety and security of their workplace and make informed hiring decisions. By understanding the differences between the two, employers can choose the best option for their hiring needs. For more information visit How to Conduct an Employee Background Check for Employment (indeed.com)
