Do you consider yourself a discerning person, one that can easily see through a lying face? You may be right, but risking everything on a hunch is not always a good business decision. Most successful company owners do have a certain skill when it comes to knowing people, but they also are careful to research facts before making a decision. The same should be true of the application process, a very important process that will eventually determine the efficiency of your company.

You may have a good feeling about a new applicant for your business but unless the facts corroborate his or her story, how can you be sure that this is in your company's best interests? If you were to randomly interview 32 people, U.S. statistical research suggests that one of those 32 applicants would have a criminal record. The criminal record could have resulted from anything, from theft to assault charges or even child abuse. Think about the risk that could come from hiring the wrong person for the job. You could open yourself up to lawsuits, employee theft or even personal injury.

What information does background screening offer you? Background screening involves doing a thorough investigation of a person's profile based on their submitted information. Background screening can help you with name verification, as well as any suspicious aliases, social security number verification, address verification, criminal history and any sexual predator records. More comprehensive background screening can bring you financial information on bankruptcies, liens and civil judgments.

When using this information you cannot only protect yourself from physical harm and theft, but also use it to determine the most suitable candidate for a major position of responsibility. For example, an applicant with a long list of bankruptcies and civil judgments may reveal himself to be irresponsible in making major financial decisions.

In addition, some background screening companies offer specialized database searches that would relate to overseas or international criminal activity. An OFAC search (Office of Foreign Assets Control) would reveal information on FBI Most Wanted lists, US Marshals Most Wanted lists, Secret Service Most Wanted lists, as well as other blacklists from banks, government entities and other important organizations.

When it comes to your business you cannot afford to take chances. Background screening helps you to minimize risks and to learn the facts about your employees before you hire. This is the safest way to do business, for you, your company and your customers.

Simon M Skinner has worked in the recruitment industry since 1994. He now heads up the marketing team for the screening firm http://www.macdataadvantage.com MacData Advantage is a public records research firm. As a member of the National Association of Professional Background Screeners (NAPBS), they hold themselves to a high level of standards to meet the highest expectations of their clients and lawmakers.