Small business owners know every penny counts. With limited resources and tight budgets, it’s understandable for them to seek cost-effective solutions for their hiring needs. One corner often cut is background checks for employment; rather than pay for professional background checks, many small business owners attempt to save money by conducting their own. However, when conducting background checks for employment, opting for a do-it-yourself (DIY) approach can be risky.

At first glance, online background check services may seem convenient and affordable for small businesses looking to save money. With a few clicks, business owners can access many online databases claiming to provide comprehensive background screening services at a fraction of the cost of professional providers. However, the reality is far from ideal. Here’s why:

• Inaccuracy: One of the primary perils of DIY online background checks is the lack of accuracy and reliability. Many online databases aggregate information from public records, social media profiles, and other sources without verifying the accuracy of the data. As a result, businesses risk relying on outdated or erroneous information, leading to costly mistakes in the hiring process.
• Incomplete: DIY background checks may fail to uncover crucial information that could impact hiring decisions. Professional background check providers can access various resources and databases, including criminal records, credit reports, and employment verification services. Attempting to replicate this thoroughness with DIY online tools is nearly impossible, leaving businesses vulnerable to hiring individuals with undisclosed criminal histories or falsified credentials.
• Noncompliant: DIY online background checks may not comply with applicable laws and regulations. Depending on the jurisdiction and industry, strict guidelines govern the use of background checks for employment purposes, including requirements for obtaining consent from candidates and adhering to Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) regulations. Failure to comply with these laws can result in legal liabilities and damage the business’s reputation.
• Privacy Violations: Entrusting sensitive employee information to online background check providers without adequate safeguards can expose businesses to cyber threats and unauthorized access to personal data. In an era where data privacy is a growing concern, businesses must prioritize the security and integrity of their background screening processes.

Better to Trust a Professional

While DIY online background checks may seem cost-effective, the risks outweigh the benefits. From inaccuracies and incompleteness to compliance risks and data privacy concerns, the DIY approach has pitfalls that can have far-reaching and potentially costly consequences for businesses. Instead, it’s far wiser to invest in professional background check services to ensure thoroughness, accuracy, and compliance. 

In contrast to the potential pitfalls of DIY background checks, professional background check companies offer several advantages that can benefit small businesses. Here are some key reasons why partnering with a reputable background check provider is the smarter choice:

• Expertise and Resources: Professional background check companies possess the knowledge and resources to conduct comprehensive and compliant background checks. They can access more databases than DIY solutions, including criminal records, employment verification tools, and professional licensing information. This ensures businesses receive a complete picture of an applicant’s qualifications and background.
• Streamlined Process: Conducting background checks in-house can be time-consuming and tedious for small business owners who already wear many hats. Professional background check companies handle the entire process efficiently, streamlining the hiring process and allowing business owners to focus on other aspects of running their business.
• Reduced Risk: Businesses assume a certain risk when hiring a new employee. Professional background checks mitigate this risk by helping employers to make informed decisions about potential hires. Background checks can help businesses avoid costly mistakes and build a safer and more trustworthy workplace by uncovering potentially disqualifying information, such as a criminal history or fraudulent credentials.

Peace of Mind: Partnering with a reputable background check company can bring peace of mind to small business owners making critical hiring decisions. Businesses can rely on the expertise and accuracy of professional background checks to ensure they are building a solid and qualified team.

Published by: Khy Talara