BLOG

The results of a Ballotpedia survey showed that more than 80% of respondents think organizations should be able to run employment background checks on all potential hires.

About The Survey

In April 2024, Scott Rasmussen of Ballotpedia ran an online survey about employment background checks. It asked a variety of questions that were intended to provide insight into how the public feels about screenings. According to the results, 82% of participants felt employers should be able to run background checks during their hiring process.

While developing the survey and reviewing results, various factors such as geographical location, age and gender, were considered. The goal was to properly represent a large and diverse group of Americans.

Survey Questions

The survey featured targeted questions, such as:

• Should employers be allowed to require criminal background checks as a condition of employment?
• 82% of respondents said yes, 10% said no and 8% were unsure.
• Retail businesses commonly face high levels of petty theft. Is it reasonable for these stores to require background checks on applicants who might have access to merchandise and cash?
• 69% said this is very reasonable, 25% felt it was somewhat reasonable, 3% believed it was somewhat unreasonable, 1% declared that was very unreasonable and 1% of respondents were unsure.
• If people from certain racial and ethnic groups are less likely to pass criminal background checks, is requiring them a form of discrimination?
• 80% of respondents said no, 6% were unsure and 15% said yes.

Screening Isn’t Only For Employers

When people think about background checks, some may assume they are primarily for the benefit of an employer. It's true these reports help hiring managers identify top talent and learn whether an applicant has serious or relevant criminal records that might indicate they pose an undue risk to the business. However, they also offer great value to people who are employed by those companies as well as consumers who use their services.

By running comprehensive background checks, employers are taking steps to protect their staff and the people they serve. They can help organizations determine whether a prospective employee should be deemed safe to be around other workers or the public. Knowing that a company screens every person they are considering brings peace of mind to anyone who is employed at or patronizes a business.

The Backgrounds Online Approach

At Backgrounds Online, we produce concise, thorough reports that are a crucial part of our client’s due diligence process. We think of background checks as economical insurance policies that help protect businesses and keep people safe.

Our team is committed to providing a fair, transparent service that is mutually beneficial to everyone involved, whether directly or indirectly.

Need Background Checks?

If your organization needs background checks for applicants, employees, volunteers or contractors, please contact us. Our highly experienced team can help you develop customized screening packages that suit your particular needs, comply with applicable laws and meet industry regulations. We are available to assist you Monday through Friday from 5am to 6pm PT.