Verifying Educational Credentials: A Guide for Employers
Verifying educational credentials is a crucial step in ensuring the reliability and truthfulness of the information provided by a candidate. This process is especially important in the hiring and recruitment process, where the authenticity of degrees and certifications can significantly impact the decision-making process. Whether you're a recruiter, manager, or potential employer, knowing how to verify a degree can help you make informed hiring decisions and maintain a high standard in your organization.
Methods of Verifying Degrees
There are several effective ways to verify if someone has the degree they claim to have. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the verification process.
Contact the Educational Institution
The most straightforward method is to contact the university or college where the individual claims to have obtained their degree. Most institutions have a verification process for employers and individuals. This approach is effective because educational institutions keep detailed student records and can confirm the student’s enrollment and graduation status.
Use Degree Verification Services
There are third-party services that specialize in degree verification. These services typically charge a fee but can provide a more detailed and thorough verification process. They use a combination of online databases, official records, and direct communication with educational institutions to confirm the authenticity of educational credentials.
Check Online Databases
Some countries and regions maintain online databases where you can verify degrees and credentials. For example, in the United States, the National Student Clearinghouse provides degree verification services. Similar databases are available in other countries, making it easier to check the validity of degrees from various institutions.
LinkedIn and Professional Profiles
Professional networking sites like LinkedIn often list an individual's educational background. However, it's important to verify this information through official channels, as people may not always update their profiles accurately or completely.
Public Records
In some cases, educational degrees may be part of public records, depending on local laws. This can be particularly useful for professionals in certain fields, such as law enforcement or healthcare, where background checks and verifications are more stringent.
Ask for Documentation
Requesting copies of the individual's diploma or transcripts is another method. While this may not always be appropriate depending on the context, it can provide additional confirmation of the degree. Always request permission and handle the documents with care to respect privacy and legal considerations.
Additional Tips and Common Issues
While the methods listed above are generally reliable, there are some common issues that can arise during the verification process. Here are a few examples:
Claiming Degrees from Closed Colleges: Some individuals may claim to have degrees from institutions that have since closed. In such cases, the original degree or transcripts may be unavailable. Verifiers should ask if the individual has any official records or if the institution’s records are still accessible.
Loss or Theft of Documentation: Unfortunately, degrees and other educational documents can be lost or stolen. Verification should include checking if the individual has any backup copies or if the institution can provide a duplicate. Encourage the individual to request new copies if necessary.
Unforeseen Circumstances: Some people may have faced unforeseen circumstances, such as car accidents or fires, that resulted in the loss of their documentation. While rare, it’s important to approach the verification process with empathy and a willingness to provide reasonable accommodations.
Verifying educational credentials requires a combination of diligence, empathy, and a commitment to ethical practices. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your hiring process is fair, transparent, and backed by accurate information.