Background Screening Frequently Asked Questions

We understand that for some, background screening can be difficult to navigate considering regulatory compliance required by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) along with the variety of screening options to choose from. To help, LP Innovations, along with our alliance partner, General Information Services, offer answers to these frequently asked questions regarding background screening.

What is a background check?

Most people think of a background check as a criminal history search of an individual. In reality, a background check screens an individual on a number of levels to assess whether or not the individual is likely to be able to perform the duties and responsibilities of the position and/or likely to cause harm in any way. It supports an organization in evaluating those they are likely to hire are who they claim to be and have no outstanding issues or concerns related to their role or potential role within an organization.

Why should you run background checks?

First, some regulations dictate certain industries run checks on new hires or existing associates throughout their employment. More importantly, as an employer you have a responsibility to ensure the safety of your associates, clients and business. Hiring the right candidate includes verifying they are who they claim to be, have the right experience to do the job and do not have a history of theft, violence or other criminal acts.

Associates with fiduciary responsibilities or who are responsible for company property, such as a vehicle or machinery, should also be checked accordingly. It is important to know prior to hiring if there is a history of wrongdoing. Background screening provides additional information during the hiring process.

Why are there so many different types of background checks?

Yes, there are many different types of screens that can be conducted, each one with its own purpose. For many, the "overlap" is often in the criminal history screenings, as there are "Nationwide Databases", state databases and even county criminal history reports. Our legal system is broken down into local, county, state and federal courts and the screening process often follows how the legal system operates. For more details regarding national databases, read our article, "When a National Criminal Database really isn't a National Criminal Database."

Is there such thing as a Standard Background Check Package?

No. There is no single or standard package that exists, however as a company you can create a customized standard package, specific to each position or role within your organization. Working with your provider to create a customized package will make selecting the right screening for each position an easy process.

LP Innovations, with our experience and expertise serving the retail industry, has developed standard packages based on the various roles within the retail industry and its various verticals. You can learn more about these on our 'Pre-designed Background Screening Package' page.

Is a background screening program worth the investment?

Absolutely. Understanding that the cost to recruit, hire and train a new associate can be expensive, choosing the right candidate upfront saves you money in the long run. The overall cost of screening a candidate is a fraction of that cost, not even considering what the cost to your business could be if that new hire engages in theft, misconduct or violence while employed with your company.

Working with the right solution provider will ensure your screening program is appropriate for the positions your recruit for and is not excessive in cost, time or unnecessary screens.

How do we start a background screening program?

There is a lot to consider when implementing a screening program. Understanding legal requirements, do's and don'ts, choosing the right screens and educating your staff of expectations can be confusing. Even though we provide some FAQ's, the best approach is to talk through your plan with experts.

The LP Innovations (LPI) team are loss prevention experts, who offer a background screening solution as one of its core services. LPI, along with its screening partner, General Information Services (GIS) can provide both the loss prevention development expertise along with background screening expertise. We would be pleased to schedule a discussion with you to talk through your desire to start a program.

Want more Background Screening FAQ's that we didn't discuss here, including FCRA regulations, how often they should be run and how to handle issues? Download our FREE Background Screening FAQs whitepaper from our alliance partner here.

Contact us to discuss starting or assessing a background screening program for your company.