As professional background screeners, much of our time is spent checking the often unsavory pasts of our clients' employees and applicants. We uncover resume fraud, professional licenses that cannot be verified, criminal records for fraud, DUIs, sex offenses and other crimes, and more.
But being an expert in this industry requires more than just compiling a comprehensive background report, however. Helping clients stay compliant with laws that are mandated federally, at the state and local level, or by particular industry is really the most important thing we do. For instance, we don't just sell a drug test and deliver the positive or negative result, we also provide guidance on administering an effective drug-testing policy. Additionally, we require every employee, regardless of role, maintain Fair Credit Reporting Act certification, so our entire team is capable of helping employers respond to the never-ending regulations that govern their hiring practices.
It's imperative to know your industry inside and out, know what issues your clients are facing, and to keep up with industry trends.
» Read voraciously.
» Attend national conferences (I am about to complete my tenure as the chair of the National Association of Professional Background Screeners).
» Get involved in associations.
Be the go-to expert. It's your responsibility and duty as a professional to earn the respect of your peers and especially of your customers.
Only then can you achieve sustainable career success. •