As the job market becomes increasingly competitive, employers are looking for any edge they can get when it comes to choosing the right candidate. One way they might do this is by requiring a background check. There are many different reasons why an employer might want to conduct a background check beyond simply determining if an applicant has a criminal history. Keep reading to learn more about why employers might require a background check.
Checking for Criminal History
When it comes to hiring new employees, many employers require some form of a background check. This can include basic online background checks, criminal record checks, credit checks, and verification of education and employment history. There are several reasons why an employer might want to look into an applicant’s background.
The first and most common reason employers might conduct background checks is to ensure that potential employees do not have a history of criminal behavior that would make them ineligible for work. Criminal history checks can help employers protect their employees, customers, and property. In addition, some employers may be required by law to conduct criminal history checks on potential employees.
Preventing Fraudulent Job Applications
Employers might also require background checks to deter fraud. Fraud can occur when employees misrepresent their qualifications or experience on their resumes or job applications. By conducting criminal background checks, employers can screen out candidates with a history of committing fraud and reduce the likelihood that they will be scammed by an employee in the future.
Criminal background checks can help employers quickly verify that the applicant has the qualifications they say they have and is not wanted by the police.
Determining Creditworthiness
Although it’s unlikely most people will receive a line of credit from their employer, an applicant’s creditworthiness can be an important factor in the hiring process. There are a few reasons why an employer might need to run a credit check on a potential employee. One reason is that an employer may want to ensure that they are hiring someone who is responsible and can be trusted with financial information.
Additionally, if the job you’re applying for involves handling money or other financial transactions, your employer may want to make sure that you have a good credit history and are not in debt. This is because a person with a poor credit history may be more likely to commit fraud or embezzle money.
If you are applying for a job that does not involve any financial transactions, your employer may still choose to run a credit check on you. This is because a credit check can provide employers with information about a person’s overall financial stability. For example, if you have a lot of unpaid debts or if you have been through bankruptcy, this may indicate that you are not good at managing your finances and may be more likely to default on your payments.
Verifying Employment History
Background checks may also be used to verify an applicant’s employment history. Employers conduct background checks to verify employment history for several reasons. One reason is to ensure that the candidate has not lied about their past employment. If the employer finds that the candidate has lied about their past employment, they may not be considered for the position.
Another reason is to verify the dates of employment. This is to ensure that the candidate was actually employed during the time they claimed to be. If the employer finds that the candidate was not actually employed during the dates included on their application, they may not be considered for the position.
Overall, employers require background checks to ensure the safety of their employees and customers. Background checks can provide employers with information about an individual’s criminal history, employment history, and credit score. This information can help employers make informed decisions about whether to hire an individual.
