Why background checks are important

Bad news on the economy is on every channel. The banks and auto companies are suffering layoffs and firms in other industries are using this apparent downturn to trim the dead wood, consequently unemployment numbers are growing.

Even though the economy may seem less than rosy, there are jobs out there, especially in certain areas of IT. Those that are hiring need to be more aware than ever as to whom they are hiring.

Even in good times, people tend to pad their resumes but in tough times, desperation may lead to out right lying. That is why a pre-employment background check is important.

If you are a potential employer and in a position to hire someone for your IT staff there are three important things you need to know. 1. According to the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse, over 30 percent of all information given on resumes is false or misleading. 2. You and your company can be sued for an employee’s misconduct or harm caused to someone else. 3. Former employers are limited by law as to what they can say about a former employee. Usually they just acknowledge that the person once worked there and nothing else.

You have to ask the applicant for permission to conduct a background check. Usually, this is part of the application process. It would be wise to consult with a labor attorney to make sure that you are in legal compliance but it will be one of the best investments you could make, especially if something turns up that was different than what was stated on the job application.