background checks

Background checks are becoming more and more important for businesses in keeping the business, their employees, and their customers safe. Proper background screening, including drug and alcohol testing, criminal background checks, and general background information will ensure that those working in sensitive, dangerous, or customer-facing positions have the character your business needs.

What does a background screening consist of?

A most basic background checks, or screenings, consist of a county search of a person’s residency over the last five years, their criminal history and will check the National Sex Offender and Violent Abuse Registry. In many cases, companies will expand on the basic checks based on the nature of the position being filled. For example, if a person is driving for the company, a driving record can be ordered. Employers should also confirm education credentials and certifications required of a position.

What is background screening?

A background screening is a useful tool to confirm information provided by the prospective employee on their resume or during the interview process. Many companies are required to ensure employees have the required certifications need for the job. Employers need to verify that the prospect has not previously committed certain crimes for which they would prevented from working in those positions.

How long does a background check take?

Some of the screens ordered by employers will generate results immediately, as information is contained in a registry or database that is easily searched. Other, more complicated background checks, like education or past employment verification, may take a few days as phone calls must be made to obtain the needed information. Generally, a thorough background screen can be conducted in one to three business days.

What shows up on a background check/what does a background check show?

The information obtained in the background check depends on the type of screening ordered by the employer. If a driving record is requested the employer will receive a list of driving violations received during a set period of time. If a criminal history is requested the employer will receive a report of all crimes committed in a given time period if any exist.

How far back to background checks go?

Generally, the last five years of residency is checked for criminal searches but employers can request a longer time period if they so choose. Other credentials that may have been acquired decades ago are often requested.

What do employers look for in a background check?

Almost any information that is pertinent to the job can be verified with a background screen. Some employers choose to have credit checks done on potential new hires. The important thing to keep in mind is the background screen should have some relevance to the position being filled. For example, it’s never a good idea to do a credit check on a new hire that is going to be working in the warehouse.

How much does a background check cost?

Background checks range in cost from $50 to $150, depending on the depth of the screen being ordered.

Still have questions? Call our team today at 847.258.3966 or visit one of our Chicago locations.