As a job-seeker, it can be intimidating knowing that a potential employer wants to do a background check on you. A background screening does not have to be a stressful process, and with the help of this comprehensive guide, we hope to answer any questions you might have regarding the process. Keep these points in mind, and you will have nothing to worry about when details of your life are accessed by a third party.
1. Why do companies conduct background verification checks?
Every company needs to protect their interests and their reputation. While you do not pose a threat to the company and have been completely honest and forthcoming on your resume´, a company has no guarantee that all candidates are the same. There is always the possibility of candidates withholding important information like a criminal past, which companies have to watch out for. With employee fraud on the rise, companies have to be very careful with their screening and hiring process. Companies need to screen potential employees to make sure that the information provided by the candidate and the reality match. In 2017 it was found that 15.21% candidates present false information on their resume´s, which was almost a 5% increase from 2016. Hiring employees without doing a full background check could potentially put a company at risk. You can find out more about why it is important for companies to do a background screening here.
2. Can an employer initiate the verification process without my permission?
No. Any background verification that the company wishes to carry out can only be done with your consent. Under Article 21 of the Constitution of India, the right to a person’s privacy is protected. Screening someone without their permission is an infringement on the right to privacy When AuthBridge conducts a background check, the verifiers must upload an ARN (Authorization Release Note), signed by the employee giving their consent for the verification.
3. What can be included in a background check report?
When you are being screened by an employer the main criteria that are looked at include: – Criminal records – Employment history – Social media profiles – Education history These records are obtained from the databases of the institutions holding the records.
4. Can an employer ask my friends and neighbors about me?
Yes. If an employee needs to verify your address and identity, they can ask friends and neighbors about you.
5. Will I be given a chance to clear the mistakes or misunderstandings with background checks?
There might be a situation where a background verification check might get your information wrong or mixed up with someone else of the same name. Always make sure to ask for a copy of your background screening report to be able to verify the information for yourself. In case there is some discrepancy, it is best to talk to the potential employer and explain the situation. If it is a case of mistaken identity, you can show proof of the mistake. The final outcome will depend solely on the employing company. At AuthBridge we take the utmost care to make sure that all information acquired is authentic and of the correct individual.
6. What can I do to ensure that my background screening goes smoothly?
The most important thing you can do is, to be honest with the information you provide to the employer. This guide will help your background screening go smoothly and without jeopardizing your career.
