Testing, Testing 1-2-3

Utilizing Background Screening & ID Verification in Hiring (with Verified First’s Ian Bellais) | Testing, Testing 1-2-3 Podcast

Jenny and Mike Callen of TestGenius interview Ian Bellais, Executive VP of Strategy at Verified First, about how background screening fits into recruitment. Ian explains Verified First’s services (background checks, verifications, drug screening, I-9, and an upcoming WOTC solution) and describes when screenings typically occur, why ID verification is increasingly important, and what a “good” screen includes based on role risk. He suggests every employer should screen to protect the company, employees, and culture, and discusses ongoing screening for certain roles. The conversation covers compliance basics such as FCRA, EEOC considerations, Ban the Box, and the importance of screening candidates consistently for the same role, as well as remote-work implications and candidate experience.

00:00 Welcome and Introductions
00:52 Meet Ian and Verified First
02:21 How Ian Got Started
03:34 When to Run Screens
04:15 ID Verification Explained
06:46 What Checks to Include
08:58 Why Every Employer Screens
10:24 Ongoing and Repeat Checks
11:57 Choosing the Right Package
13:53 Look Back Timeframes
15:36 Compliance Basics and FCRA
18:25 State Rules and Forms
20:20 Ban the Box Explained
23:31 Candidate Experience Matters
26:13 Remote Work Considerations
32:40 Wrap Up and Contact Info

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