by Aimee Cartwright
In House Social Media Checks may scratch the surface of a candidate’s online presence, but is that enough?
As regulations evolve and reputational stakes rise, more organisations are recognising that Professional Social Media Checks are not just the safer option, but the smarter one.
Join us as we dive into the benefits of professional social media screening, from consistency and accuracy to compliance with UK GDPR.
What are Social Media Checks?
Social Media Checks assess risks in a candidates’ online presence, primarily as a form of pre-employment screening.
Mandated in the Education and Healthcare sectors, and used as a vital recruitment tool in many other industries, these innovative checks are growing in popularity all over the world.
So, what’s the difference between Professional Social Media Checks and In House Social Media Checks?
Professional social media screening is:
- Regulated by the ICO
- Legally compliant
- Consistent
- Accurate
- Objective
- Efficient
Did you know? 60% of employers have uncovered red flags, such as discriminatory remarks or concerning behaviour, through professional social media screenings (HR Review).
Due to a lack of advanced technology available for In House Social Media Searches, they run the risk of breaching UK GDPR, returning inaccurate results, introducing bias, and contributing to an inefficient recruitment process.
Professional vs In House
Let’s explore three key areas (technology, compliance and confidentiality) to unpack exactly why professional online background screening is being implemented by reputable businesses all over the UK.
Technology
Successful background check providers, such as those that are members of the Professional Background Screening Association (PBSA), rely on advanced technology to propel their screening processes.
Using AI-driven tools to perform high-volume searches, these companies are rapidly identifying and mitigating risks, a skill that is impossible to replicate in the context of the average in-house process.
Such specialist technology drives consistency, accuracy, efficiency, and objectivity.
Compliance
Attempting to access sensitive candidate information is a dangerous game to play outside the framework of UK GDPR.
Professional background screening organisations must be compliant with UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018, and the Equality Act 2010 (including Protected Characteristics).
This commitment to compliance prevents discrimination claims, data protection breaches, and unfair hiring practices.
Confidentiality
For many candidates, the idea of their current or prospective employer directly reviewing their social media is unsettling.
Outsourcing Social Media Checks allows businesses to maintain professional distance, which often proves crucial when adverse content is uncovered. Third-party providers present results in an objective, professional manner, allowing for full confidentiality.
Conclusion
Transitioning to Professional Social Media Checks promises a rich depth and scope, allowing businesses to make safer, smarter hiring decisions without the fear of reputational damage.
Contact Us
Get in touch with us to learn more about our expert Social Media Checks:
Telephone: +44 333 210 1688
Email: info@sp-index.com
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