How can you be sure you’re dealing with a reputable background screening organisation?
Whether you’re just starting out with background screening, or you’ve lost faith in your current provider, we’ve compiled the following tips to help you be sure that your background screening provider is giving you the service you deserve!
Can you get hold of them?
This may seem like an obvious one, but you’d be surprised how many background screening firms make this difficult. Hiding their phone number or having a million different options that you have to choose every time you call? Do they respond to emails in good time?
If you’re answering no to these questions, it might be time for a change!
There’s nothing more frustrating when dealing with a company that keep their customers at arm's length. At Personnel Checks. we pride ourselves on being able to support our clients as and when they need it. This is why if you need to, you will always be able to speak to a human.
But you don’t just have to call us! We use multiple channels of communication to ensure our customers are never more than an email or message away from receiving the support they need.
Do they demonstrate high levels of customer service?
A high level of customer service is essential for any background screening provider. We strive to deliver a service that not only helps our customers but can make a difference to their day!
This is one of the many reasons why Personnel Checks are the only UK background screening provider to maintain a five-star rating on Trustpilot. But they aren’t just amiable, all our customer service advisors are background screening experts.
Background screening is inherently complex, as businesses from all sectors need to run checks. Even if they are approached with something they haven’t come across before they can quickly learn and contextualise your needs into their existing knowledge. If we can do this and put a smile on your face, we know we’ve done our job!
Do you receive a customized experience?
Background screening is not ‘one size fits all’. While certain regulations are applicable regardless of industry, a reputable screening company shouldn’t be trying to mould your business to fit their service.
Not only do different industries have specific requirements but employers also have processes that a background screening provider needs to be able to integrate with. Being able to customise their service to fit your needs is essential.
Personnel Checks offer various tailored solutions meaning you can have as much or as little involvement in the process as you desire. From customised contact emails for your applicants to dedicated webpages. Get in touch today to find out how we can customise a service for you!
Technology and Innovation
Software integration isn’t a selling point any more, it’s expected.
We realised early that background screening solutions should drive efficiencies and safety in our clients existing processes. The reason we can successfully integrate customised solutions into our customers recruitment practice is down to technology.
Using an electronic DBS check process reduces average processing times from 6-8 weeks to less than 14 days. Being able to access your applicant information remotely, on any device means you can make critical decisions wherever you are. Our secure portals mean you can be sure your data is protected.
But technology is constantly changing. You don’t want a provider who can’t adapt to wider developments in the economy. You need technology that is scalable and adaptable as your business grows.
This is why we are constantly refining our products, so that we’re confident we can provide the most streamlined and secure management of your screening process. The next stage in our evolution is to deliver a unified compliance management platform for our clients. Make sure you sign up to our mailing lists to keep up to date with our product development.
Do they have any memberships or accreditations?
Like any industry, background screening has its associated trade bodies and industry accreditations. The main international trade body is the Professional Background Screening Association (PBSA) who also have regional councils and committees dedicated to the advancement of the profession.
The UK committee contributing to the European Council of the PBSA is called the Criminal Records Trade Body (CRTB).
Despite there being thousands of organisations offering background checks in the UK, many of them are not members of any of these organisations and are far from being accredited. By working with a member of one of these trade bodies you can be confident that the firm you’re dealing with is reputable and have your best interests at heart.
Personnel Checks are members of both the CRTB and the PBSA and strive to uphold their associated standards. We believe background checking is a vital way for employers to safely manage their recruitment process and helps contribute towards a safer society for everyone.
Are they active in the industry?
Screening providers regularly engaging with industry topics and challenges on social media or via their website is a sign that you are on to a winner. Being active in an industry is always a good sign as it proves an organisation is listening and acting on any changes affecting them and their clients.
Being able to anticipate changes means that organisations can be quick to adapt to changes in legislation. By partnering with an active screening provider, you can be confident that your business will be kept up to date with any potential changes.
Not only are we members of the UK’s background screening trade bodies but our MD Jack Mellor also serves as vice-chair for the CRTB. Being on the cutting-edge of industry developments means we are perfectly situated to advise of any changes to the industry that might affect our customers.
For more information about how Personnel Checks background screening solutions can aid your organisation, get in touch! You can give us a call on 01254 355688 or drop us an email at letstalk@personnelchecks.co.uk