What You Don't Know Can Hurt You - The Ins and Outs of Criminal Background Checks

Think since your organization does not serve children that you are immune to needing criminal background checks (CBC's) ?  Think again!  Every nonprofit should conduct criminal background checks to ensure the safety of their clients, staff and resources!  CBC's go beyond protecting children.

• Seniors are the fastest growing demographic for predators'
• Background checks are not just for predators but also to prevent fraud.  According to the Wall Street Journal, 34% of resumes contain lies.

In this session participants will learn:

1. Have a signed consent for background check
2. Use an application form
3. Ask about criminal convictions in application
4. Review application carefully for “red flags”
5. Match information with a government issued photo ID
6. Ask the five key interview questions

1. Applicant does not sign application
2. Applicant leaves criminal questions blank (the honest criminal syndrome)
3. Applicant self-reports offense
4. Applicant fails to explain why left past jobs
5. Incomplete information
6. Applicant fails to list past supervisors or details of past employment
7. Excessive cross-outs and changes
8. Applicant fails to explain employment gaps

1. Our company has a standard policy of conducting background checks on all hires before an offer is made or finalized.  You have signed a release form.  Do you have any concerns about that?
2. We also check for criminal convictions for all finalists.  Do you have any concerns about that?
3. When we talk to your previous employers, what do you think they will say?
4. Will your past employers tell us that there were any issues with tardiness, meeting job requirements, etc.?
5. Tell me about any unexplained gaps in your employment history.

1. Specifically ask if person has been convicted, or has ANY pending charges
2. Leaving out misdemeanors is a BIG mistake
3. Criminal conviction does not automatically eliminate from consideration
4. Don’t rely on another employer
5. This is your applicants chance to be HONEST