by Jacqueline McClure, Genesis Background Screening Services
From building their own websites to recruiting and more, a lot of businesses are finding it is a time and money saver to bring some tasks in-house. If you are thinking about using an online DIY background screening site to handle your background screening, look at your options apples-to-apples. On the surface, the task of performing background screening seems like maybe it could fit into that in-house category. But wait; are you so excited about the hope that you could save time and money that you are ignoring the resources it will consume, the liability to your company and how it will affect your hiring decisions?
With a plethora of available services for choosing the DIY route, it can be very tempting. But the DIY sites may not be using all the same sources that a CRA (Credit Reporting Agency) uses. A qualified, professional CRA will have in-person representatives to physically access records in different jurisdictions instead of relying on only online resources the way many DIY background screening sites do. And a professional CRA will have knowledgeable staff that know how to make sense of what they find from a variety of sources. Often times what is online may be outdated, inaccurate or not even the correct identity.
If you are expecting to save time, think again. Not only will DIYers spend a lot of time compiling information from multiple sources, but also trying to understand it all, especially if the “facts” are conflicting or confusing. In addition, the liability involved for mistaken identity or erroneous information could cost you in more ways than one. Litigation is always a concern, along with not making the most informed hiring decision, but you also run the risk of losing a great candidate from fumbling the process.
A qualified CRA can really cut through the confusion with your background screening process. They are required by law to follow strict FCRA (Fair Credit Reporting Act) regulations and can help your company stay in compliance with your background screening. And as far as cost, if you really compare the services and prices side-by-side, a qualified CRA is going to be a cost effective way to get the accurate information you need for your company.
Only you can decide what you need for your company’s background screening. But if your purpose is to get the most accurate information, stay in compliance, protect your company from litigation, and make informed hiring decisions, choosing a CRA is a great step to help you meet these goals. You don’t have to give up the convenience of ordering your searches online, but choose a CRA that gives full service support that is just a phone call away.
Be sure to check your background screening company is staying on top of the screening industry changes and helping you stay compliant. If you have any questions or would like a consultation on best hiring practices and background screening, you can call 866 944-0041 ext 101, email getstarted@gbsspro.com or visit www.genesisbackgroundscreening.com
