What does a background check cover?
- Identity and education checks – confirm the candidate's identity and validate their qualifications
- Employment history – confirm previous positions by contacting former employers
- Financial assessment – for roles involving financial responsibility, a credit check may be justified
- Criminal record extract – some positions may require a criminal record check
Permission and consent
Written consent from the candidate is both ethically and legally necessary before any check is carried out.
How do you carry one out?
- Gather information – collect the necessary documents, CV, certificates and references
- Verify – contact educational institutions and former employers
- Document – compile the findings in an organised report
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not obtaining consent
- Excessive screening of irrelevant factors
- Ignoring warning signs in the results
