What is an Employment History Database?
An employment history database is an online resource used by employers to help them decide whether to hire a potential employee. The database allows employers to look up information about a candidate’s employment history and other pertinent information, such as criminal records or education. This helps employers to make informed decisions about which candidates to hire and which to reject.
How Does an Employment History Database Work?
An employment history database works by indexing and storing information about potential candidates. This information is typically gathered from resumes, job applications, and other documents. Employers can then search the database for candidates that meet their requirements.
When employers search the database, they can view detailed information about the candidate, such as their employment history, education, and criminal records. This information can help employers decide if the candidate is suitable for the job.
What Information Is Included in an Employment History Database?
An employment history database typically includes the following information about potential candidates:
- Employment history: This includes past employers, job titles, and dates of employment.
- Education: This includes educational institutions attended, degrees obtained, and other relevant information.
- Criminal records: This includes any criminal records the candidate may have.
- References: This includes contact information for references provided by the candidate.
- Skills: This includes any special skills or certifications the candidate may have.
What Are the Benefits of an Employment History Database?
An employment history database can be a valuable resource for employers. Here are some of the benefits of using an employment history database:
- Time savings: Employers can quickly search the database for suitable candidates, saving them time and effort.
- Better decision making: Employers can make informed decisions about which candidates to hire, based on their employment history, education, and other information.
- Reduced risk: Employers can reduce the risk of hiring unqualified or unsuitable candidates, by verifying information in the database.
Are There Any Drawbacks to Using an Employment History Database?
Although an employment history database can be a valuable resource for employers, there are some potential drawbacks to using it. Here are some of the potential drawbacks:
- Inaccurate information: The information in the database may be inaccurate or outdated, which could lead to bad hiring decisions.
- Data privacy: There is always the risk of data breaches or misuse of the information in the database, which could lead to legal issues.
- Time consuming: Searching the database can be time consuming, as employers may need to go through a lot of information to find suitable candidates.
Are Employment History Databases Legal?
Yes, employment history databases are legal, as long as they comply with the relevant laws and regulations in the country they are operating in. For example, in the United States, employers must adhere to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).
The FCRA sets out rules and regulations for how employers can use employment history databases. These include obtaining written consent from the candidate before searching the database, and providing them with a copy of the results of the search.
How Can Employers Ensure That Their Use of an Employment History Database Is Legal?
To ensure that their use of an employment history database is legal, employers should follow these steps:
- Understand the relevant laws and regulations: Employers should familiarize themselves with the relevant laws and regulations in their jurisdiction, to ensure that they are compliant.
- Obtain written consent: Employers should obtain written consent from the candidate before searching the database, in accordance with the relevant laws and regulations.
- Provide a copy of the results: Employers should provide the candidate with a copy of the results of the search, in accordance with the relevant laws and regulations.
Are Employment History Databases Effective?
Employment history databases can be a useful resource for employers, but they should be used in combination with other recruitment methods, such as interviews and reference checks. This will help employers to make informed decisions about which candidates to hire or reject.
Conclusion
An employment history database can be a valuable resource for employers. It can help them to quickly and easily search for suitable candidates, and make informed decisions about which candidates to hire. However, employers should ensure that they are compliant with the relevant laws and regulations in their jurisdiction, and use the database in combination with other recruitment methods.