Background checks are an essential part of any screening process, whether someone is applying for a job at a company or if you’re looking to hire a nanny to look after your kids. While some people may consider it an excessive step, keep in mind that regardless of the position you are applying to, it is always in a company’s best interests to hire the best employee for the job, not only in their ability, but in their character as well. But how long do background checks usually take?
Here is a guide that looks at an overview of what goes on during background check, and how long you can expect a check to take, whether you’re a company looking to hire the right candidate for the job, or a potential employee looking for their next employment opportunity.
How Long Do Background Checks Take?
The answer to this question can vary depending on the background check conducted. For example, a simple criminal record check might only take a few days, while a more comprehensive check that looks at someone’s financial history could take weeks or even months.
There are a few factors that can impact how long a background check takes, such as:
- The type of information being requested: Some information, like criminal records, is public and can be accessed relatively quickly. Other types of information, like credit reports, are private and may take longer to obtain.
- The agency conducting the check: Different agencies have different processes and timelines for conducting background checks.
- The complexity of the check: A background check can be as simple as verifying someone’s education and employment history, or it can be much more complex, like investigating someone’s financial history. Generally speaking, most background checks will take at least a few days to complete. However, it is not uncommon for some checks to take weeks or even months.
If you’re an employer, it’s important to be aware of the potential timeline for a background check to set realistic expectations for your hiring process. If you’re an employee, it’s important to be patient and understand that a thorough background check can take some time.
What Happens During a Background Check?
A background check can be conducted in several ways, but typically it will involve the following steps:
- Requesting information from relevant agencies: This includes requesting a criminal record check, credit report, and other relevant information from government agencies or private companies. Depending on the type of background check needed, this can mean requiring a simple credit check, or collecting information from all kinds of agencies.
- Verifying information: Once the relevant information has been obtained, it will be verified by checking with the appropriate sources. For example, if someone’s criminal record is checked, the agency might contact the police department to confirm that the record exists and is accurate.
- Analyzing results: Once all the information has been collected and verified, it will be analyzed by an experienced professional. This step is vital to determine whether an applicant is suited for the position they are applying for.
- Reporting results: The background check findings will be reported to the employer, so they can make an informed decision about whether to hire the applicant.
While the steps involved in a background check can vary depending on the type of check being conducted, this is generally what happens during the process. There are a few ways to speed up a background check.
One of the best ways is to identify precisely what kind of information is needed for the check. This helps cut down on any time spent looking for information that will not be used in the application process. As an applicant, it also helps to be forthcoming about any information that you feel will be considered a red flag to your potential employer.
This can help the employer understand your background and make an informed decision about your candidacy. Finally, it is always a good idea to be patient during the process, as rushing a background check can lead to errors in the findings.
Need Reliable Background Check Services?
For a thorough and reliable background check, Impeccable Background Solutions is here for you. Our team of professional researchers will ensure that you find the best talent for your company quickly. Our background check services guarantee competitive pricing and fast turnaround times for your background checks, helping you make the best decision for your organization.
Schedule a background check now, or reach out to us for any questions that you might have about the process, and we’ll get started right away.
