Hiring a new worker is a critical task for any business owner, and it demands meticulous attention to detail. One of the essential undertakings that a business owner should not overlook is conducting background checks. Background checks are instrumental in determining the suitability of an individual to fill a vacant position in your company. In today’s blog, we discuss the reasons why background checks are incredibly important for potential employees.
1) Verification of Identity and Criminal Records
Conducting a background check helps to verify the identity of the potential employee and assess if they have a criminal record that might compromise the safety and security of the workplace. Employers who prioritize the safety of their employees and their business operations will always conduct thorough background checks. A criminal record check can provide information about a person’s criminal history, giving the employer a clear picture of the individual that they intend to hire.
2) Protecting Your Business Reputation
A company’s reputation can either make or break its success. Hiring an employee with a reputation for theft, fraud or any other criminal activities, can tarnish the company’s good name. This can lead to mistrust from customers, loss of clientele, and damage employee morale and trust. One way to protect your business reputation is by conducting a background check before hiring any potential employee.
3) Revocation of Liability Issues
When an employer hires an employee, they become liable for that individual’s actions during work hours. Any damage or harm caused by the employee during work hours falls under the employer’s responsibility. Conducting background checks ensures that you hire employees that are trustworthy and will not cause liability issues. For example, if a company hires delivery drivers with a history of reckless driving, it can easily lead to severe accidents, increasing the company’s insurance premiums.
4) Staff Retention and Efficiency
Hiring the right candidate with a suitable background is a significant factor in maintaining a smooth running business and retaining your workforce. Employing staff with criminal records and problematic pasts can lead to high turnover and a toxic work environment. Background checks help identify competent individuals who will fit the company culture, skills, and experience required to perform duties competently.
5) Avoiding Legal Issues
In some sectors, such as education and healthcare, criminal background checks are mandatory by law. Complying with these laws is crucial to avoid lawsuits against your business. In other words, not conducting background checks can lead to legal action against your business in case an incident happens with a new hire who has a problematic past.
Background Checks in Central Oregon
In summary, conducting background checks for potential employees is an essential step in the recruitment process. It is a proactive measure that protects your business reputation, safeguards the safety of your workforce, and reduces liability concerns. Moreover, background checks are a key consideration in following sector laws and regulations. As a business owner, it is your responsibility to ensure that your employees’ background checks are conducted to minimize risks and avoid legal implications. At the end of the day, pre-employment background checks are an investment that will ensure efficient, reputable, and trustworthy employees who will reflect well on your company.
If you are hiring in Central Oregon, Precisely Payroll can help with background checks. We provide simple and affordable background check solutions to ensure that you hire the right candidate. Contact us online or call at (541) 317-0100.