What Is Background Check? | HR Glossary | BambooHR
Verification of a candidate's history — such as identity, references and qualifications — before employment begins.
A background check is the process of confirming that a prospective employee is who they claim to be and holds the experience or credentials stated. It can cover identity, employment references, academic qualifications and, for some roles, criminal records.
Checks manage risk. They protect colleagues, customers and the organisation's reputation, and they are essential in regulated sectors or roles involving vulnerable people.
Proportionality and consent are key: employers should only verify what is genuinely relevant to the role and handle results with strict confidentiality.
