5 Common Background Screening Challenges We Hear at HR Events (And What to Do About Them)

At Verified Credentials, we’re all about helping HR professionals thrive. One of the ways we do that is by showing up at HR industry events. These gatherings are a great opportunity for us to really listen. Whether it’s new ideas, feedback, or the challenges people are facing, we seek out information so we can better support the HR community. 

Neal Josten, one of our Senior Account Executives and a true expert in the field, has been to countless events on our behalf. He spends time chatting with HR leaders about their screening processes and what’s working (or not). After years of being in the thick of industry trends, roadblocks, and shifting priorities, Neal’s helped us zero in on some of the most common pain points HR teams run into with background screening. 

So, what are these challenges? What’s behind them—and more importantly, how can HR teams tackle them? Let’s dive in.  

The top 5 screening challenges

1: Slow turnaround time 

The background check is typically the final step in what can sometimes be a lengthy hiring process. At this point, HR’s plate is already full, and candidates are restless and eager to get started. A lengthy screening process can leave candidates frustrated. In the case of competitive job markets, a candidate with multiple offers might be more likely to choose a competitor if they have a more efficient hiring process. As it turns out, the quality of the candidate’s experience is a major challenge of its own.  

The solution: Working with a partner that offers consistent and transparent communication can help reduce candidate anxieties and frustrations. While nine out of ten checks are completed in under 24 hours, Verified Credentials provides estimated delivery times on all background check orders so no one is left guessing. Candidates appreciate the clear insights and HR teams have fewer calls requesting updates. 

2: Poor candidate experience 

The average candidate is already dealing with the effort of submitting applications, attending interviews, and completing assessments – all under the pressure of making the leap of faith into a new job. A negative or confusing experience is the last thing you want a candidate to experience in their early interactions with your organization. A handful of candidates who have had bad experiences in the hiring process and vocalize it can quickly cast your brand in a bad light. 

The solution: An intuitive and simple screening process keeps candidates engaged and on-track. Verified Credentials built our platform with this in mind. Candidates are guided step-by-step through the process, only asked for the information that is necessary, and easily sign required documents from any device. 

3: Unresponsive customer service 

An unhelpful customer support team is another factor that can cause issues in the screening process. HR departments are expected to have all the answers at their fingertips; the time they spend chasing down a customer support agent for information is time they can’t spend properly vetting applicants. This can cause significant strain on your HR staff, and from the candidate’s perspective, receiving no communication and no direct answers from the organization when a job is on the line can feel uncomfortable and unwelcoming.  

The solution: Understanding the type of support your screening partner provides can go a long way. Can you call and get a person on the line quickly? Are notices sent to you and the candidate throughout the process? Do you have access to a dedicated Account Manager? Verified Credentials has always operated with a people-first mentality. Our support team is 100% internal and located in the communities we serve, which means they are fast to respond and educated on our solutions.

4: Compliance concerns 

Navigating evolving regulations, from the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) to state or local laws, is no easy task. Many HR departments worry about staying current with regulations to avoid legal consequences and reputational damage. With plenty of other details to account for, HR pros want to partner with screening firms that can comprehend legislation changes, adapt accordingly, and promptly share those updates with clients.   

The solution: A screening partner that shows they know their stuff and helps to keep you up to speed is invaluable. Verified Credentials provides monthly compliance updates (join our mailing list so you don’t miss the next one!) and periodic webinars on the latest industry compliance-related trends. While we can’t cover every new law in detail, our goal is to help HR leaders understand what topics they should ask their legal counsel about to understand how it might impact their business. 

5: Outdated tech and integrations

A focal point of HR departments today is streamlining their onboarding and recruiting processes. They are searching for a seamless workflow where their technology works efficiently and connects in a single ecosystem. 

The solution: A few key indicators that a screening system can help simplify your hiring process includes:   

• Integrations with ATS, HRIS, and other HR tech platforms  

• Customizable account configurations to match your needs 

• Workflow tools to account for high-volume hiring, assist with compliance processes, and make report review easier 

Screening technology like Verified Credentials’ in-house developed and maintained employment screening platform checks all those boxes and more. 

The screening step of the hiring process is one of HR’s most important responsibilities, and in some cases, one of their most considerable burdens. With so many moving parts, a trusted screening company can help you ensure your methods are reliable, effective, and in the best interests of both your candidates and organization.   

Want to learn more about what sets Verified Credentials apart? Contact our experts for more info or to get started on optimizing your screening process.  

Guest Contributor

Neal | Senior Business Development Manager  

Neal is an experienced business development manager at Verified Credentials with over 15 years of experience in the background check industry. Dedicated to enhancing the hiring process, he is always on the lookout for new opportunities and issues employers struggle with during the hiring process. Neal partners with HR pros and decision makers to equip them with the insights and tools needed to make more informed hiring decisions.