It can be a daunting task if you are looking to implement a new background screening program or seeking a new background check provider. A Google search on “background check providers” produces 229,000 results. That’s a lot of potential companies!
So how do you select a potential background check provider? Referrals are a good way to start, but after you have selected several potential companies, where do you go from there? Corporate Screening recommends you ask the following questions and consider the suggestions below when you’re interviewing a prospective background screening provider.
1. What products and services does the company offer? Do they take the time to understand your needs?
A broad scope of products and services tailored to fit your needs is important. When you meet with an account representative, it’s important that he/she takes the time to understand your processes, and work with you to build a program that meets your requirements. And after you have established your program, they should be able to help you regularly review your existing policies and procedures and make recommendations for improvements.
2. Do they offer a variety of ordering options? Are integrations with ATS/HRIS systems offered?
The flexibility to order your background check in the way that best suits your workflow is important to keeping the process moving. Background integrations with ATS/HRIS systems are a time-saver on which more and more organizations rely on. They assist with streamlining hiring, as well as reducing duplicate data entry, administration, and time.
3. Is the company accredited?
Background providers have the opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to quality and excellence by becoming accredited by the National Association of Professional Background Screeners (NAPBS®) Background Screening Credentialing Council (BSCC). In order to become accredited, the company must pass a demanding on-site audit of its policies and procedures as they relate to the following six areas: consumer protection, legal compliance, client education, product standards, service standards, and general business practices. Less than 10 percent of background screening companies in the U.S. are accredited.
Other considerations include the length of time the company has been in business (in general, established companies are more stable), references, and checking to see what additional support and resources the company offers. Look for a company you can trust, and will be a partner to you, as well as offer guidance throughout the process.
