Introduction
With the rise of the gig economy, more companies are hiring temporary workers. However, the risks of hiring non-permanent employees are often overlooked due to a common misconception: these employees will only be around for a short time to cause real damage. This mindset can be dangerous, as it may lead to a compromised work environment, security breaches, or costly lawsuits. Here’s what HR professionals need to know to ensure thorough and effective background verification for temporary hires:
Why Conduct Background Checks For Temporary Employees?
Rushing to hire temporary and contract workers without proper background screening can lead to significant issues. Despite their short tenure, temporary employees can still harm your brand’s reputation by mishandling customer interactions, accessing sensitive information, or disrupting the workplace environment. Non-permanent employees can pose extra risks as they may feel less attached to your company’s success and are harder to monitor than full-time staff.
Implementing a company-wide policy and procedure for screening temporary workers is crucial. Modern background checks for temporary workers help you select trustworthy and qualified staff, reducing the risk of data breaches or unsafe work conditions. Verifying a short-term hire’s abilities also ensures that your resources are well invested.
- Importance of Background Checks for Temporary Employees
While temporary employees may not have the same long-term impact as permanent staff, they still represent the company and can access sensitive information or interact with clients. Conducting thorough background checks is essential to mitigate risks such as fraud, theft, and reputational damage.
- Customised Screening Processes
HR departments should tailor their screening processes to suit the nature of temporary employment. This might involve focusing on key areas such as identity verification, criminal history, and employment verification, rather than more extensive checks typically reserved for permanent positions. Customization ensures efficiency while maintaining the necessary level of scrutiny.
- Speed and Efficiency
The hiring process for temporary employees often needs to be swift. Leveraging technology, such as automated background check systems and AI-driven tools, can expedite the verification process. This enables HR to quickly onboard temporary staff without compromising on thoroughness.
- Compliance with Legal Requirements
Temporary employees are subject to the same legal protections as permanent staff. HR must ensure that background checks comply with relevant employment laws and regulations, including data protection and anti-discrimination laws. Understanding these legal requirements helps avoid potential legal pitfalls.
- Rechecking for Repeated Engagements
For temporary employees who return for multiple engagements, it’s important to determine how often background checks should be repeated. Depending on the nature of the work and the time elapsed since the last check, periodic rechecks may be necessary to ensure ongoing suitability for the role.
- Vendor Partnerships
Many companies partner with third-party background verification providers to handle the volume and complexity of checks for temporary employees. Selecting a reputable vendor with experience in handling temporary staffing needs can streamline the process and ensure reliable results.
- Balancing Thoroughness with Candidate Experience
HR must balance the need for thorough background checks with the candidate’s experience. Overly invasive or lengthy screening processes can deter qualified temporary workers. Clear communication and a user-friendly process help maintain a positive candidate experience.
- Industry-Specific Requirements
Different industries may have specific background check requirements for temporary employees. For instance, the healthcare, finance, and education sectors often have stringent screening criteria. HR should be aware of these industry-specific regulations and ensure compliance.
9. Continuous Monitoring
For roles with access to sensitive information or critical functions, continuous monitoring may be beneficial. This involves ongoing checks for any changes in an employee’s background during their tenure, providing an additional layer of security.
- Documenting the Process
Keeping detailed records of the background check process for temporary employees is crucial. Documentation ensures transparency, aids in compliance audits, and provides a reference in case of disputes or issues.
Common Challenges And Solutions In Screening Temporary Workers
HR professionals may face several challenges when suggesting a background screening program for short-term hires, including:
- Cost restrictions
- Time restrictions
- Limited HR policies
- Departmental segmentation
These challenges can be addressed by understanding that some perceived obstacles are myths. Investing in background checks for temporary employees is essential for protecting your company, and the benefits far outweigh the costs.
Key Background Check Services For Temporary Employees
Background check companies often run a basic background check for temporary workers to save costs and focus on essential information. Common background check services include:
- Criminal Background Checks: These searches scan public records for criminal behaviour, including sex offender registries. Adding SSN Trace can expand the scope by searching jurisdictions not mentioned by the candidate.
- Employment History Verifications: These checks establish a temporary worker’s credibility and skill set, including reference checks with former employers and explanations for employment gaps.
- Education Verifications: Validating education, licenses, and credentials ensures the candidate is qualified for their role.
- Credit History: For financial roles, thorough credit checks protect your assets against unreliable workers.
- Motor Vehicle Records: Essential for hiring safe and reliable drivers to represent your brand on the road.
- Drug Testing: Necessary for certain roles to reduce negligence and maintain a drug-free workplace.
Legal Considerations In Background Screening
Compliance is crucial when conducting background checks, even for temporary or contract workers. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) outlines protocols for compliant background checks, including disclosing the check and obtaining the candidate’s written consent. Candidates also have the right to receive a copy of their background check report.
State-specific laws may also impact screening processes, with requirements varying significantly between states. Partnering with an FCRA-certified background check company ensures compliance with federal, state, and local laws. Always consult with legal counsel in addition to your background screening provider.
Partnering With A Background Check Company
A thorough background screening program doesn’t need to be complicated. Professional background check companies handle the complexities, allowing your business to focus on core activities. They customize services based on your needs, ensuring efficient and accurate pre-employment checks.
Accredited background screeners use advanced technology to improve the speed and accuracy of reports. Look for a partner offering excellent customer service to address any questions or disputes quickly.
Communicating With Temporary Employees
When implementing background checks for temporary employees, clear communication is vital. Be transparent about the process, explaining why screening is necessary, what candidates can expect, and where they can find help. Temporary workers, especially independent contractors, may take the screening personally. Clarify that it is a standard procedure and inform them of their rights under the FCRA and any relevant state laws.
Conclusion
Although a temporary worker’s tenure may be short, the long-term benefits of their background check are substantial. Standardizing background screening for all employees, regardless of contract length, is essential. Partnering with an FCRA-certified background check business ensures your hiring decisions support company safety, security, and compliance.
Whether you’re a small business or a large firm, working with a certified background screening provider like AuthBridge offers the expertise and technology needed for compliant and efficient checks. For more information on our temporary and contract worker background screening solutions, reach out with any questions, and we will assist you promptly.
