Second Chance Employers: What to Look For in a Background Check

Anything on a criminal background check will cause most employers to toss a resume. However, many companies have stepped up to offer second-chance employment. It’s an opportunity for people who have a criminal record, but not one that interferes with the job. Millions of people have a few small infractions that can be forgiven if they have repaid society and are trying to live a better life. It often feels good to see someone rebuild their career in your employ. However, it’s also important to know exactly what to look for in a background check if you intend to be a second-chance employer.

It’s important to consider both their criminal history and the picture painted by the rest of their background check.

Safe and Unrelated Crimes

The first and most important requirement is that a second-chance employee’s criminal history be unrelated and non-violent.

Unrelated crimes mean the job does not create an opportunity to repeat a previous crime. Non-violent crimes also indicate that the second-chance employee is likely not a danger to their coworkers or customers.

Stable Current Life

Consider whether the candidate’s background check indicates a stable current life. The length of time in their current home, financial health, and any related information should point to someone living a normal and grounded life.

Improving Credit Score

Someone working on their second chance may have a credit score on the rise. Acting with careful responsibility about their finances, paying debts, and using a credit card within their means will have that effect. If their credit report indicates improvement, this is a good sign.

Recent Work Credentials

Check their credentials. Someone who has recently been certified or renewed their certifications (or licenses, or whatever is relevant). They are ready to focus on their career and leave chaos behind them.

If a candidate seems to be going in the right direction but has expired credentials, encourage them to renew during your first interview. If they’ve done it by the second interview, they are committed.

Qualified in All Other Ways

Lastly, a second-chance hire should be someone qualified in all other ways. This is in addition to passing the red-flag test in their background check. If everything checks out, a second-chance employer may acquire valuable and committed new employees with the help of TruDiligence employee screening services.