Nowadays, criminals disguise themselves in various forms, causing society to be concerned about potential dangers, especially users of rider services or goods transportation who must interact with strangers. As seen in the news, passengers have been sexually assaulted by taxi drivers or riders have had road rage incidents with sedans. Criminal background checks have shown that these offenders had previous convictions and had recently been released from prison only to commit crimes again. This has led society to have an increasingly negative view of these individuals, to the extent that it is assumed that these people should not be given job opportunities, raising questions about whether their employers had conducted criminal background checks.
From these social issues, it is clear that a person’s criminal history affects employment opportunities, but there are still chances and options for offenders who want to change their lives for the better.
How does a criminal background check impact an organization?
To increase an organization’s credibility, especially those requiring special security such as security companies, financial institutions, transportation, and childcare or eldercare services, conducting a criminal background check is a preventive measure to ensure that the individual does not have a history that could be dangerous to the organization or others. People with criminal records may pose a risk of reoffending, as has been seen in the news.
However, many countries are pushing to amend policies to give individuals with criminal records a chance to rehabilitate and re-enter the job market. The benefits of conducting a criminal background check allow organizations to know if an individual has a tainted history before considering employment, based on the following criteria:
1. Severity of the Criminal Case
For example, cases involving fraud could impact positions related to finance or those requiring trustworthiness. A criminal background check informs employers about the applicant’s history, the severity of the crimes involved, and allows them to make informed employment decisions based on that history.
2. Company Policies
In addition to supporting employees to grow according to their capabilities and develop their potential, organizations should have trustworthy policies for hiring new employees to reduce risks and prevent repeat offenses, also creating a safe work environment.
In conclusion, while having a criminal record can be a barrier to finding certain types of jobs, there are still opportunities and choices for those with such histories to advance their careers. Having measures to mitigate impacts and providing opportunities for life rehabilitation can help individuals with criminal records gain employment and successfully reintegrate into society.
