Beyond the Basics: Why Verification Services Are Essential in Background Screening
When it comes to hiring, background checks are a critical step in protecting your workplace. But many employers don’t realize that background screening isn’t only about criminal history or driving records—it’s also about verifying the information candidates provide. Verification services help organizations uncover details that standard background checks may not reveal, adding an extra layer of trust and reliability to the hiring process.
Why Verifications Matters
Criminal and MVR checks can help identify risks, but they only tell part of the story. Verifications dig deeper, ensuring that what’s written on a resume or application matches reality. And the need for this is real—studies show that nearly 40% of job applicants lie about their work history or education (Source: CareerBuilder). Catching discrepancies early can save employers from the high cost of a bad hire, which is estimated to average $17,000 per employee (Source: CareerBuilder).
By validating education, work history, references, and even identity, employers can prevent fraud, reduce risk, and hire with confidence.
Common Types of Verification Services
🎓 Education Verification
Education verifications confirm the authenticity of diplomas, degrees, and certificates. This process validates institutions attended, dates of attendance, and degree completion—providing confidence that candidates have the academic background they claim.
💼 Employment Verification
Employment verifications check past employers, job titles, dates of employment, and sometimes reasons for leaving. Since employment details are among the most commonly misrepresented areas on resumes, these checks ensure candidates’ work history is accurate and complete.
📞 Reference Verification
Reference checks provide valuable insights into a candidate’s character and performance. By contacting professional references, employers can gather feedback on strengths, communication skills, work ethic, and overall job performance—context that a resume alone cannot provide.
✅ ID Verification
Before diving into the background check itself, confirming an applicant’s identity is critical. ID verification validates government-issued IDs to confirm the individual is who they say they are. This helps prevent fraud, impersonation, or misrepresentation at the very beginning of the hiring process.
The Advantage of Verifications in Hiring
Verification services give hiring teams a fuller picture of candidates and help ensure decisions are made based on truth, not assumptions. By supplementing traditional background checks with these tools, organizations can reduce risk, protect their workplace, and build a workforce rooted in trust and integrity.