Criminal record checks are a necessary tool in your HR team’s toolkit as they enable your team to validate that their candidates don’t have a criminal history. Whether hiring employees, volunteers, or contractors, ensuring a safe environment for your employees and customers is paramount. However, the effectiveness of a criminal record check heavily depends on the provider you choose.

Here are the top 10 things to look for when selecting a criminal record check provider. 

   1.  Speed: In business, time is of the essence. A provider that offers speedy criminal record check processing can significantly expedite your hiring or onboarding processes. Look for services that can deliver results quickly without compromising accuracy, allowing you to make timely decisions and avoid delays in your operations. A 15-minute turnaround time should be the minimum turnaround time you should expect from a criminal background check provider in Canada.

   2.  Security: Given the sensitive nature of the processed information, security should be a top priority. Ask the background check provider about their security measures, such as encryption, secure data storage, and other measures to protect personal information. Compliance with data protection regulations further guarantees that your data is being handled responsibly. 

   3.  Data Accuracy and Completeness: The value of a criminal record check is only as good as the data it contains. Unfortunately, some companies cut corners by uploading incomplete or outdated data, often acquired through bulk purchases. Ask the criminal background check provider what their data sources are and how current it is.

    4. Technology: The background check provider should provide your team with modern, easy-to-use technology. This ensures efficiency and speed, so your team can quickly obtain the criminal record check.

    5.  Integration Capability: If your organization utilizes an internal HR system, selecting a criminal record check provider that seamlessly integrates with your existing processes is critical. This integration capability can streamline workflows, reduce manual data entry, and save time and resources.

    6.  Accessibility/Availability: It is vital to have access to crucial information at all times. Choose a criminal record check provider that offers an online platform available 24/7. This accessibility ensures you can request checks and retrieve information whenever necessary, accommodating urgent situations and providing flexibility in your operations. 

   7.  Complete Range of Background Checks: When selecting a provider, look for those offering a comprehensive background check suite. Beyond basic criminal record checks, reputable providers should also include employment verification, education verification, reference checks, credit checks, social media checks, driver abstracts, and ID verification. This fulsome range of services allows for a more thorough assessment of potential employees or partners, whether locally, nationally, or internationally. You should aim to do the most in one place. 

   8.  Bulk Pricing: Flexibility in pricing can make a significant difference, especially for companies that require multiple checks. Find a provider that offers bulk discount pricing and flexible billing options. This capability allows you to manage your budget effectively while ensuring the necessary checks are performed without hindrance. If you perform a very high volume of checks, a very small reduction in per-check price can lead to thousands, if not tens of thousands, of dollars in savings. 

   9.  Reputation: A provider’s reputation speaks volumes about their reliability and quality of service. Opt for a Canadian-owned company with a strong track record supported by numerous positive reviews. High ratings and testimonials from trusted sources indicate that the provider is well-regarded within the industry and committed to customer satisfaction. 

   10.  History, Tenure, and Credentials: Consider the provider’s credentials. Companies that have been in business for a long time often have extensive experience navigating the complexities of background checks. Take note of known clients, such as government agencies or large organizations, which can further validate the priorities.

Choosing the right criminal record check provider is not just about finding a service that functions but also about finding one that prioritizes speed, security, data accuracy, and a complete range of services. By considering these ten vital factors, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs and helps you maintain a safe environment for your organization. For more information about criminal background checks, visit www.tritoncanada.ca.