BACKGROUND CHECKS !!!!

Save Through Informal Background Checks ---- How ??

A background check or background investigation is the process of looking up and compiling criminal records, commercial records and financial records (in certain instances such as employment screening) of an individual. The employer may perform a background check to find out whether you actually graduated from the college you said you did or to confirm that you worked at your previous employer(s) during the time stated on your resume or your job application. 

It is estimated that up over 40% of resumes can contain false or tweaked information, so, employers want to insure that what they are getting in an employee is what they were promised. Results of a background check typically include past employment verification, credit score, and criminal history. These checks are often used by employers as a means of objectively evaluating a job, candidate's qualifications, character, fitness, and to identify potential hiring risks for safety and security reasons. 

Background and reference checks have become the golden rule of hiring in large companies due to instances of fraud or inflated resumes, but come with heavy costs. Below are points shared how one can save through informal background checks. 

• Social networks: Social networking sites like Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter or Orkut can be a great hunting ground to find out about a candidate's details. According to  HR firm Aspire Human Capital CEO Amit Bhatia - "Facebook and LinkedIn are two forums which give real feedback about a candidate, since the references they give will always hold them in good stead,"  
• Your connections: Try and leverage your own business network and contacts to find out more about a candidate. "The network will always give rational feedback on a candidate. One can also tap business contacts in the same company where the prospective candidate is currently employed to get as much details," says Ma Foi Randstad MD & CEO E Balaji. 
• Run a search: Sometimes, an internet search about a candidate can throw up information that can help you form an opinion about a candidate. This is more so for middle and senior managers. 
• Check with affiliates: These days, several professionals are affiliated with professional organisations. "A call, email or visit to such affiliate organisations will provide details and help to verify qualifications and work experience," says Reshmi Ghosh, an HR consultant. 
• Devote time: Human Resource experts suggest spending as much time on undertaking a background check as on interviewing a candidate. Balaji suggests that for senior management hiring, it is always better to undertake a thorough check through a professional agency. "Otherwise, the risks are greater." 

Source: The Economic Times.