How do social media background checks work?
The convergence of security concerns after 9/11 and the online data revolution
have
expanded access to reliable background checks outside of large corporations. Today, nearly 80% of all
employers, large and small, screen job applicants in some form before hiring.
Pre-employment social media background checks must be conducted carefully and in accordance with privacy
laws and regulations. Information, such as a social media history check, requires the written consent of the
applicant in accordance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
What’s included in a social media background check?
Social media background checks and reference checks are the most common background
checks, but solutions vary by industry and specific job requirements. For example, will the candidate be
involved in cash transactions or money management? A social media background check is designed to check
whether an applicant is truthful about their online activity, toxic or obscene language, etc.
Most importantly, our social media background checks are compliant and remove protected class information
such as race, color, age, gender, religion, disability, etc. You get the information you need to take more
effective hiring decisions while protecting the candidate's right to privacy. And everything is delivered
quickly and inexpensively.
How long does a social media background check take?
5 mins. We proudly claim the fastest turnaround times in the industry for social
media background checks.
How much does a social media background check cost?
Does a job applicant have to consent to a social media background check?
Yes. Some state laws and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (a federal law that governs
who is allowed to access your consumer report information and how it can be used) generally require written
or electronic consent from the job seeker before contacting a third party verification company such as IqSoc
for conducting any search, history check or referral check.
How do I confirm my social media background checks are legal?
Our automated social media screening technology applies appropriate content
filters
in accordance with state and federal laws. In addition, we provide regular updates to state law.
Should I run an social media employment background check before making a job
offer?
No, it's best to make a job offer before starting the pre-employment background
check. It is important to know that while the FCRA does not restrict background checks after a job offer
is made, some state laws may do so. Unless restricted by your state's laws, we recognize that it is a good
idea to make a job offer prior to starting a background check.
This question is best left to the discretion of your lawyer. There are many differences between various
state and industry laws. However, your industry and job requirements will likely give you a good starting
point.