What might a pre-employment investigation check regarding an applicant?

A pre-employment investigation is primarily focused on assessing the qualifications, character, and background of an applicant to ensure they are suitable for the role they are applying for. One of the most critical aspects of this investigation is checking the applicant’s criminal history.

Understanding an individual’s criminal history is essential for several reasons. Employers need to protect their business interests, safeguard other employees, and maintain a safe work environment. Criminal background checks can reveal past offenses that may pose a risk to the organization or its employees. In many industries, particularly those involving vulnerable populations, safety and trustworthiness are paramount, making this check a standard practice in the hiring process.

While personal hobbies, cultural background, and favorite television shows may provide some insights into an applicant's personality or fit within a company culture, they do not provide the same level of crucial information regarding the applicant's reliability, integrity, and potential risks associated with hiring them. Thus, the focus on criminal history in pre-employment investigations is essential and justified.