Since the 4th quarter of 2008 more than 4 million people have been added to the rolls of the unemployed. Given the size of the unempoyed worker pool, and the volume of interviews it takes to land the right candidate, conducting a background investigation is a must. The Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) reports that 40% of employment applicants are not truthful about their educational backgrounds. SHRM also notes that 20% of employment applicants falsify licenses and credentials, and 30% have misrepresented their work experiences on their resume. These "integrity challenges" confirm that candidates are eager to return to work - at all cost. Employers have the upper hand in times of high unemployment due to the vast number of available workers - but should take time and additional steps to carefully vet each candidate regardless of the classification and level of the open position.

 

As Recruiting and Staffing professionals, we encourage our clients to build adequate time into the staffing plan for background investigations. We've all heard the phrase "haste makes waste" and this can be avoided by looking into the employment rear-view mirror of candidates eligible for an employment offer. Consider these background investigations. Which did your HR department conduct on your last hire? 

In our practice, we are seeing an increase in the number of employers asking for assistance with candidate searches - particularly contract-to-hire and temporary workers. This confirms they want the best talent, and are prepared to vet them carefully. We encourage HR leaders and hiring managers to not be penny-wise and pound foolish on the all important task of hiring workers.

 

NEW OFFICE ADDRESS:
Human Capital Consultants, LLC
6021 University Blvd, Suite 140
Ellicott City, MD 21043
(410) 480-3200