Background checks are carried out in Kenya in various kinds of situations. One such situation is when employers are hiring, help them make informed decisions. These checks serve to verify an individual’s records, such as employment history, education, credit rating, and criminal background, among others, all contributing to a more informed decision-making.
Types of Background Checks
- Criminal Background Check
This check reveals any past convictions. It is crucial for employers to assess potential risks associated with hiring a candidate.
2. Employment Background Check
Verifying employment history ensures that the information provided by candidates is accurate. This may involve contacting previous employers to confirm experience, job titles, dates of employment, and reasons for leaving.
3. Educational Background Check
Educational Background Check confirms the authenticity of academic qualifications. We utilize educational institutions and dedicated verification channels to validate certificates and any other needed qualifications.
4. Financial Background Check
This involves assessing an individual’s financial history. This check may not be necessary for all roles but specific positions that require financial transparency and accountability. This check can involve reviewing credit reports from bureaus such as TransUnion, Metropol among other sources.
5. Professional References
Speaking to references can provide insights into a candidate’s character and work ethic, further adding to the information that will assist in the hiring decision.
Legal issues in Background Checks in Kenya
Kenyan background checks are governed by the Data Protection Act of 2019. This act requires employers to obtain written consent from candidates before conducting any checks. This protects individuals’ privacy rights while allowing necessary verification processes to be conducted.
The process of conducting background checks
1. Obtain consent
Before initiating any checks with us, ensure you as the employer, you have informed and obtained consent from your candidates. We will require you to provide this signed document.
2. Collect and Provide necessary documents
Depending on the checks that you need, we may request various documents including:
- National ID
- Candidate’s resume
- Educational certificates
- Certificate of Good Conduct
- Among others.
3. Verification steps
Each type of check has specific verification process. For education background checks, we may contact educational institutions, for employment background checks, we contact previous employers.
Seamless background check process.
- Clearly let your candidates know when you are doing a background check. Communicate the purpose of background checks to the candidates.
- Ensure you maintain required legal requirements outlined in the Data Protection Act, Employment act and any other relevant laws.
- Share with us all required documents and information to ensure checks are conducted within favorable turnaround time.
- Respect privacy and handle all personal data with care.
Conclusion
Background checks perform a crucial part in Kenyan hiring processes. They assist organizations in limiting the risks associated with uninformed hiring decisions while preserving a safe working environment, which leads to increased productivity and lower operational costs.
For more information about carrying out background checks in Kenya for any given industry, please visit our website or schedule an online meeting with us here. Book Meeting
