Most HR professionals feel reference checking is very or somewhat successful in discovering employees who may perform poorly. Additionally, more than half of the respondents stated that their company has implemented a policy to prevent them from giving any information about current or former employees, including references.

One important reason to verify backgrounds of job applicants is due to an increase in the number of applicants who are willing to falsify their resumes. Companies cannot afford to take chances on their employees.

Education and job tenure are the most lied about areas on a resume. In a job interview, candidates most commonly lie about their compensation and reasons for leaving a job. Sometimes there are signs on applications that tell you someone is lying, but the best way to protect yourself against a dishonest applicant or future employee is to run a background check on each applicant you are considering.

Based on the SHRM survey findings, Industry People Group, an e-staffing services company for the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) industries, recommends the use of its VeriCruit service to perform background verification.

VeriCruit is industry specific and tailored for construction industry professionals. The VeriCruit service is available in standard and custom packages, which can include any combination of applicant background checks such as drivers license check, social security verification, criminal conviction search, sexual offender check, credit check, educational degree and professional certification, and employment history.

For more information, visit www.vericruit.com.

Publication date: 02/28/2005