Verifying Employment Credentials and Other Checks

It is common for Ohio employers to use background checks when making employment decisions. Many businesses find background checks to be a valuable tool when going through the hiring process. That said, it is essential the tool is used in a legal way.

There are steps an employer needs to take when making employment decisions. If an organization violates applicable background check laws, legal action may be possible. Connect with a Columbus background check lawyer to understand your rights.

Criminal Checks and Educational Background Checks

Typically, background checks are initiated so that employers can verify information an applicant provided and unearth any issues that could be problematic. An employer is trying to make the best hiring decision possible, so what items an organization chooses to check could be connected to the position being hired.

Some jobs require criminal background checks. Educational professions, such as principals, professors, teachers, and administrators, often require criminal checks to verify the person does not have a history that would make them dangerous around younger people, such as being a sex offender.

In other cases, a position being filled could require an individual to have access to a large amount of funds, such as at a financial institution. Then, a credit check may be appropriate. Conversely, doing the same checks for an individual applying to work at a beverage counter may not be necessary.

There are also times when an employer will want to be sure an employee has earned a degree. Depending on the organization, an educational background check can be done in a couple of ways. Some organizations reach out to the school record office to verify a degree and the date it was obtained. Other employers use third-party companies to perform background checks. These companies charge a fee for their services. When an educational check is performed, the potential employer will need to know if a potential hire changed their name. Sometimes a person used another name, before they were married for example, when they earned their academic degrees.

Previous Employment and References

When an organization wants to confirm where a potential hire has worked, they may check to verify a person worked at an organization for the timeframe they stated on their application and resume. Another part of this can be the desire to talk with references.

Former coworkers or supervisors may be contacted. A hiring manager may call a former employer to confirm title and dates of employment. An exception to this is if an employee has asked the organization not to contact a former employer. When a former employer talks about a past employee’s work history, it is essential no discriminatory language is used.

An organization may also choose to test candidates. This can be true when a specific skill set is needed to perform a job well. These tests may be in addition to background checks. If a legal line was crossed, talk to a Columbus background check lawyer.

Were you a victim of an illegal background check in Ohio? Contact the lawyers at Coffman Legal LLC today. We are strong and committed advocates for all Ohio workers and use our experience and knowledge to help you. Call 614-949-1181 for a free and confidential consultation.