Hiring security staff is no small feat. These individuals are not just responsible for safeguarding property but also for ensuring the safety of people under their watch. For property managers, chief security officers, and security company hiring managers, skipping a thorough background check can be a costly mistake. In this post, we'll walk through why these checks are crucial and how to conduct them effectively.
Legal Compliance: It's essential to understand the legal standards governing background checks. Various laws at the federal and state level dictate what can and cannot be done during these checks.
Criminal History: Essential to assess the candidate's criminal record.
Employment History: Verifies the candidate's previous job experiences and conduct.
Education Verification: Confirms the educational qualifications claimed by the candidate.
Credit Checks: Sometimes relevant, especially for positions handling sensitive information or valuables.
Step 1: Consent and Legalities: Always obtain written consent from the candidate before starting any background check. It's not just courteous; it's often legally required.
Step 2: Verifying Identity and Credentials: Ensure the candidate is who they say they are. This includes checking government-issued IDs and verifying any licenses or certifications required for the role.
Step 3: Criminal History Check: This step should be handled with care. Understand the laws in your area about what can be considered (like how far back you can look) and ensure fairness in evaluating this information.
Step 4: Employment and Reference Checks: Contacting previous employers and references can provide invaluable insights into the candidate’s work ethic, character, and reliability.
Step 5: Special Considerations for Security Personnel:
Drug Testing: Often crucial for security roles.
Psychological Evaluation: Can be important, especially for high-stress security positions.
Be consistent in your process for every candidate.
Respect privacy and confidentiality.
Ensure fairness and non-discrimination.
Thorough background checks are non-negotiable in the security industry. They’re not just about ticking boxes; they’re about ensuring that those entrusted with security responsibilities are qualified, reliable, and trustworthy. By adhering to these practices, you’re not only protecting your property but also the people and assets that depend on your security personnel.