When small businesses start to grow, they look for a larger staff count to take on new job roles as the company expands. Hiring decisions are some of the most important investments businesses will make throughout the lifetime of a company. A single bad hire can have a massive negative impact on a company’s chances of success.
The most reliable method for securing qualified talent is the use of small business background screening services.
Risks associated with the hiring process
When small businesses rely on family, friends, and community partnerships when it comes to new hires. Reaching out through already-formed connections is generally seen as a more affordable way to create a reliable and trustworthy team. However, there is always the risk that small business owners may not know as much about their friends as they thought.
It is unlikely that employees hired through these friendship networks will be entirely forthcoming about their pasts. This lack of knowledge can put both a business and customers at risk if, for example, an employee with a DUI criminal history is placed behind the wheel of a company car.
Aside from affecting reputation, poor hiring choices can also lead to significant financial consequences. The average cost of completing the hiring process runs around $4,000. This does not include the cost of litigating negligent hiring suits, loss of product or assets, or drops in revenue from reputational harm. The true cost of a poor hire is therefore much greater.
Outsourcing for background screenings
A properly run background screening can help a small business ensure that their new employee is a perfect fit and that there will be no surprises. Third-party record search sites can be inaccurate and restricted, and checking references takes time. Therefore, it is important for small businesses to outsource the background check to a company that is up-to-date on industry regulations and compliant with all legislation.
A good background check company will provide customized products and services based on business needs. It will be Fair Credit Reporting Act compliant and offer seamless software integration. Small businesses should be sure to seek out background check companies with outstanding customer support.
At Bottom Line Screening, clients are in direct contact with one person who knows the business history and its needs. There is no time wasted in explaining the situation to yet another customer service representative. Bottom Line Screening offers customers added value through one-on-one customer service.
We work to deliver comprehensive, professionally designed background checks customized to our clients’ specific needs, backed by a compliance department that is FCRA certified. Bottom Line Screening stays on top of changing legislation and compliance so that small businesses can be sure that their hiring processes – and hiring choices – are solid.
Growth is exciting, especially for small businesses, and it shouldn’t be rushed. Small business owners should understand the risks of hiring without background checks and recognize the long-term benefits of ensuring that their future employees are the best fit all around.