In a rapidly evolving corporate landscape, companies are intensifying their scrutiny of employees’ side hustles, substance use, and past records.
This shift is driven by the rise of remote work, heightened regulatory requirements, and an increased focus on risk management.
Background verification firms have reported a significant surge in demand for checks related to double employment, drug testing, and global database reviews.
The Rise of Side Hustles and Substance Use Concerns
The pandemic and subsequent shift to remote work have made it easier for employees to engage in side hustles or “moonlighting.”
While some view these activities as a way to supplement income, companies see them as potential risks to productivity, loyalty, and data security.
- Key Concerns:
- Conflicts of interest arising from employees working for competitors.
- Reduced focus on primary job responsibilities.
- Increased risk of data breaches and intellectual property theft.
To address these issues, companies are leveraging digital tools to monitor employees’ activities.
For instance, some organizations are using provident fund data, GST filings, and social media scans to detect undisclosed side jobs.
Substance use has emerged as another critical area of concern for employers, particularly in industries where safety and compliance are paramount.
Background verification firms have noted a steep rise in drug testing requests during onboarding and even post-hiring.
- Industries Leading the Charge:
- Aviation
- Healthcare
- Information Technology
These measures aim to ensure workplace safety and adherence to regulatory standards.
Companies are also conducting random drug tests to maintain a drug-free work environment.
Scrutiny of Past Records and Implications for Employees
The focus on employees’ past records has intensified, with organizations conducting thorough checks to mitigate risks.
This includes verifying criminal records, employment history, and educational qualifications.
- Global Database Checks:
- These checks are becoming a standard practice, especially for multinational corporations (MNCs) operating in compliance-heavy sectors.
- They help identify any discrepancies or red flags in candidates’ backgrounds.
The increased scrutiny has raised concerns among employees about privacy and job security.
While companies argue that these measures are necessary for risk management, employees feel the pressure of constant monitoring.
- Employee Reactions:
- Some view these checks as an invasion of privacy.
- Others worry about the impact on their career prospects if discrepancies are found.
The trend of intensified background checks is not limited to a specific sector. It reflects a broader shift in corporate culture towards accountability and transparency.
- Expert Insights:
- Piyush Peshwani, CEO of OnGrid, noted that these checks align with peak hiring cycles and are increasingly treated as a final step in the recruitment process.
- Industry leaders emphasize the importance of balancing risk management with employee trust.
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