FEATURE
6 steps to better *background checking*
Stay protected without spoiling
the candidate experience.
1. Comply with legal requirements
As well as reducing risk, background checking can be a matter of compliance. Right-to-work (RTW) checks, for example, are mandatory for any UK employees. Find out more here.
2. Keep it swift and streamlined…
Long, slow background checking can reduce the likelihood of candidates accepting a job offer. Finding ways to simplify and speed things up is essential. Here are 4 ways to improve the process.
3. …but robust and reliable
At the same time, reliable background checking is crucial, especially given the rise in identity theft and fraud. Working with a trusted partner and robust systems helps to protect your organication.
4. Be transparent and objective
Keep candidates informed about the background checking process and how it works. Discuss any findings in a non-judgmental way, giving them the chance to provide more context or explanation.
Maintaining transparency establishes trust. In a tight labour market, it's especially important to ensure a good candidate experience.
Discover: Job ad to background checks: 5 tips for better candidate experience
5. Don't forget social media
We all use it, and nine times out of ten it's not an issue. But it is worth checking, in a fair way, for potential risk.
To reduce the danger of bias and discrimination, we recommend working with a third-party specialist.
Find out more about social media checking
6. Consider post-employment screening
Increasingly, organisations are adding post-employment screening to their employee background checking procedures.
An employee’s role and responsibilities within your company will typically evolve, whether through promotion or changes in job duties.
Rescreening candidates allows you to:
Check whether employees are still suitable for their role.
Identify issues that may have gone unnoticed in the initial hiring process.
Catch potential problems early, before they have a chance to cause significant damage.
Remain compliant with laws and regulations — if, for example, a criminal record has changed since an employee was hired, rescreening can catch this.
Learn more: How post-employment screening mitigates people risk
Your easy guide to checking right to work in the UK
In this booklet, you'll find:
View the guide
