“Ex-Con with experience in distribution of marijuana looking for a job. I only distributed cocaine one time but really, it wasn’t my fault.”
By now, you have all heard about the 6,000 drug offenders being released from federal prisons all over the country. It’s part of the Obama Administration’s plan to reduce long prison sentences given to drug offenders and cut down on jail overcrowding.
For me, it brings to mind the topic of EMPLOYEE BACKGROUND CHECKS.
Although the majority of prisoners being released are non-violent offenders, there will be men and women convicted of violent crimes also walking the streets in the near future. Even though most will be supervised through a halfway house or home confinement, the possibility is that many ex-convicts will be looking to enter the work force. That should serve as a reminder of the importance of having a thorough background check run on anyone you plan to add to your company or organization.
Some states now “ban the box” which prohibits employers from asking the question if an applicant has been convicted of a crime on the application. There is concern that disclosing that will immediately disqualify the person without having a chance to explain. But that doesn’t mean an employer should not conduct a background check.
Finding out the history of any potential worker can save time, money and aggravation for the company. For example, if a worker who has a history of violence attacks an employee, the victim could sue the business if the hiring manager knew of the past behavior.
Knowing the history of your employees can help build the reputation of your brand. One person on your staff with a checkered past can blemish how others view your business. It’s important to carefully consider whom you’re bringing on the team for that reason.
By doing these background checks you’re also ensuring the safety of your staff, clients and yourself. You owe it to anyone who’s a part of your company. While there are no guarantees, you can at least provide piece of mind and a sense of security for everyone involved by having the background check conducted before making a final decision.
K. Chapman, President and Founder
MBI Worldwide Background Checks