First Advantage is a leading provider of background check and screening services. With a global presence, First Advantage specializes in delivering industry-leading solutions that enable smarter hiring, faster onboarding, and a diverse and inclusive culture through data-driven technology and insights.
First Advantage offers a wide range of technological solutions that cater to various industry applications. Their services include criminal record searches, Form I-9 compliance solutions, and resident screening for businesses or personal needs. Additionally, First Advantage provides comprehensive background check solutions and insights that enable employers and housing providers to make confident choices, reduce risk, and maintain compliance.
First Advantage is committed to compliance and legal aspects, ensuring that their services are compliant with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and other relevant regulations. They also provide educational resources and training to help clients understand the legal requirements of screening and hiring. With a user-friendly onboarding process and award-winning customer service, First Advantage has earned positive reviews and user experiences from clients across various industries.
Key Takeaways
- First Advantage is a leading provider of background check and screening services with a global presence.
- They offer a wide range of technological solutions that cater to various industry applications.
- First Advantage is committed to compliance and legal aspects, and has earned positive reviews and user experiences from clients across various industries.
First Advantage Overview
First Advantage is a global background screening and identity solutions provider that helps organizations make smarter and safer hiring decisions. The company was founded in 2003 and has since grown to become a trusted partner for over 45,000 organizations worldwide.
Company History
First Advantage was established in 2003 as a result of a merger between USIS Screening Services and the UK-based HireRight. Since then, the company has expanded its global footprint and grown its suite of solutions to meet the evolving needs of its clients.
Core Services
First Advantage offers a comprehensive suite of solutions to help organizations make informed hiring decisions. Its core services include background screening, identity and access management, drug and health screening, and tax credit services. The company also offers a range of additional services, including fingerprinting, motor vehicle records, and international background screening.
Mission and Vision
First Advantage is committed to providing its clients with innovative solutions that help them make smarter and safer hiring decisions. The company’s mission is to empower organizations to build and maintain a safe and secure workplace, while its vision is to be the most trusted and respected provider of background screening and identity solutions in the world.
Overall, First Advantage is a trusted partner for organizations looking to make smarter and safer hiring decisions. With its comprehensive suite of solutions and commitment to innovation, the company is well-positioned to help organizations build and maintain a safe and secure workplace.
Technological Solutions
First Advantage is a global provider of employment background screening and verification solutions. The company offers a range of technological solutions that help businesses make more informed hiring decisions.
Background Screening Platforms
First Advantage’s background screening platforms include criminal records checks, drug and alcohol testing, rental property screening, and employer tax credit screening. These platforms leverage data, technology, and experience to expedite confident hiring decisions.
The company’s criminal records checks platform includes a comprehensive database of criminal records from all 50 states in the United States, as well as international criminal records. The platform also includes a sex offender registry search, a global watch list search, and a social security number trace.
First Advantage’s drug and alcohol testing platform includes a network of more than 10,000 collection sites across the United States, as well as an online portal for scheduling and tracking drug and alcohol tests.
Analytics and Reporting Tools
First Advantage’s analytics and reporting tools provide businesses with valuable insights into their hiring processes. The company’s reporting tools include customizable reports that allow businesses to track key metrics such as time-to-hire, cost-per-hire, and applicant-to-hire ratios.
First Advantage’s analytics tools use machine learning algorithms to analyze hiring data and identify patterns and trends. These tools can help businesses optimize their hiring processes and improve their overall hiring outcomes.
Overall, First Advantage’s technological solutions can help businesses make more informed hiring decisions, reduce risk, and improve their hiring outcomes.
Compliance and Legal Aspects
First Advantage is committed to adhering to global compliance standards and ensuring data security and privacy.
Global Compliance Standards
First Advantage operates in multiple countries and is subject to various regulations and laws. The company complies with all applicable laws and regulations, including the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), and the UK Data Protection Act. First Advantage also adheres to the standards set by industry organizations such as the National Association of Professional Background Screeners (NAPBS) and the Professional Background Screening Association (PBSA).
To ensure compliance with these standards, First Advantage has established a dedicated compliance team that monitors changes in regulations and laws, as well as industry best practices. The team also conducts regular audits and assessments to ensure that First Advantage’s processes and procedures are in line with these standards.
Data Security and Privacy
First Advantage takes data security and privacy seriously and has implemented various measures to protect the personal information of its clients and their candidates. The company’s data security program is designed to meet or exceed industry standards, including ISO 27001 and SOC 2 Type II.
First Advantage’s data security measures include:
- Encryption of data both in transit and at rest
- Secure storage of data in data centers with 24/7 monitoring
- Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing
- Access controls and monitoring of user activity
- Regular security awareness training for employees
In addition to data security, First Advantage also places a high priority on data privacy. The company is committed to transparency and provides candidates with clear and concise information about the data collected and how it will be used. First Advantage also provides candidates with the ability to access, correct, or delete their personal information.
Overall, First Advantage’s commitment to compliance and data security and privacy helps to ensure that clients and candidates can trust the company with their sensitive information.
Industry Applications
First Advantage provides background screening and identity solutions for various industries. Here are some of the industry applications of First Advantage:
Financial Services
First Advantage offers comprehensive background screening solutions for the financial services industry. This includes screening for employment, contractor, and vendor due diligence. They also provide identity verification, sanctions and watch list checks, and credit checks. These solutions help financial institutions comply with industry regulations and mitigate risks associated with fraud and financial crimes.
Healthcare
First Advantage provides background screening solutions for the healthcare industry to ensure compliance with industry regulations and protect patients. They offer screening for employment, contractor, and volunteer positions. Their solutions include criminal record checks, drug testing, and healthcare sanctions and exclusions checks. These solutions help healthcare organizations maintain a safe and secure environment for their patients and staff.
Retail
First Advantage provides background screening solutions for the retail industry to help mitigate risks associated with employee theft and fraud. They offer screening for employment and contractor positions. Their solutions include criminal record checks, employment and education verifications, and credit checks. These solutions help retail organizations make informed hiring decisions and protect their assets.
Overall, First Advantage’s industry-specific solutions help organizations make informed decisions and mitigate risks associated with fraud, financial crimes, and workplace safety.
Client Onboarding Process
First Advantage has a well-defined client onboarding process that ensures a smooth transition for new clients. The process involves the following steps:
- Discovery Call: The first step in the client onboarding process is a discovery call with the client. During this call, the First Advantage team discusses the client’s needs and goals to determine the best course of action.
- Proposal and Contract: After the discovery call, the First Advantage team prepares a proposal and contract for the client. The proposal outlines the scope of work, timeline, and pricing. Once the client approves the proposal, a contract is signed.
- Kickoff Meeting: The kickoff meeting is a crucial step in the client onboarding process. During this meeting, the First Advantage team introduces the client to the project team and sets expectations for the project. The team discusses the project plan, timelines, and deliverables.
- Data Collection and Analysis: Once the kickoff meeting is complete, the First Advantage team begins the data collection and analysis phase. The team collects all necessary data from the client and analyzes it to identify any potential issues or opportunities.
- Implementation: After the data analysis is complete, the First Advantage team begins the implementation phase. This involves implementing the agreed-upon plan and executing the project.
- Ongoing Support: Finally, First Advantage provides ongoing support to the client to ensure the project’s success. The team monitors the project’s progress and provides regular updates to the client. If any issues arise, the team takes immediate action to resolve them.
Overall, First Advantage’s client onboarding process is designed to provide a seamless transition for new clients while ensuring that their needs and goals are met. By following a well-defined process, First Advantage can deliver high-quality services to its clients and build long-lasting relationships with them.
User Experiences and Reviews
First Advantage has mixed reviews from its users. On G2, the platform has received an average rating of 4.1 stars out of 5 based on 40 reviews. Many users praise the company’s customer service, fast response times, and up-to-date content. However, some users have complained about the platform’s high pricing and occasional technical glitches.
On Trustpilot, First Advantage has received only one review, which is negative. The reviewer expressed dissatisfaction with the company’s customer service, stating that they were unhelpful when the reviewer needed clarification on their DBS check.
On TrustRadius, First Advantage has an average rating of 8.4 out of 10 based on 16 reviews. Users appreciate the platform’s comprehensive background check solutions and insights that enable employers and housing providers to make confident choices, reduce risk, and maintain compliance. Users also appreciate the platform’s integration with various HR systems and its user-friendly interface. However, some users have complained about the platform’s occasional technical glitches and the length of time it takes to complete a background check.
Overall, First Advantage has received mostly positive reviews from its users. While there are some complaints about the platform’s pricing and occasional technical glitches, users appreciate its comprehensive background check solutions, user-friendly interface, and fast response times.
Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations
First Advantage understands the importance of strategic partnerships and collaborations to achieve its business goals. The company has formed alliances with several organizations to expand its reach and offer comprehensive solutions to its clients.
One of the strategic partnerships that First Advantage has established is with SAP SuccessFactors. This collaboration aims to integrate First Advantage’s background screening solutions into the SAP SuccessFactors HCM Suite. This integration allows customers to access First Advantage’s screening solutions directly from the SAP SuccessFactors platform, streamlining the hiring process and improving the candidate experience.
Another partnership that First Advantage has formed is with iCIMS. This partnership allows iCIMS customers to access First Advantage’s background screening solutions directly from the iCIMS Talent Platform. The integration aims to simplify the hiring process and enhance the candidate experience.
First Advantage has also collaborated with Sterling Talent Solutions to offer a comprehensive suite of background screening solutions to their clients. The collaboration aims to provide a seamless experience to clients by integrating the two companies’ technologies.
In addition to these partnerships, First Advantage has also formed alliances with several organizations to expand its reach and offer comprehensive solutions to its clients. These organizations include the National Association of Professional Background Screeners (NAPBS), the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), and the HR Open Standards Consortium.
Overall, First Advantage’s strategic partnerships and collaborations demonstrate the company’s commitment to providing comprehensive solutions to its clients. These partnerships allow First Advantage to expand its reach and offer its services to a wider audience, while also improving the candidate experience and streamlining the hiring process.
Growth and Market Presence
First Advantage is a leading player in the global background screening industry, with a strong market presence in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. The company has been growing steadily over the years, with a revenue growth rate of 6.4% in 2020 1.
One of the key drivers of First Advantage’s growth is its focus on innovation and technology. The company has invested heavily in its platform and product offerings, resulting in a range of advanced solutions that help clients make more informed hiring decisions. For instance, First Advantage’s proprietary platform, FirstView, provides a comprehensive view of a candidate’s background, including criminal records, employment history, and education verification, among others.
Another factor contributing to First Advantage’s growth is its broad customer base. The company serves clients across a wide range of industries, including healthcare, financial services, and retail, among others. Additionally, First Advantage has a strong presence in the small and medium-sized business (SMB) market, which represents a significant growth opportunity 2.
Overall, First Advantage’s growth and market presence are a testament to the company’s commitment to innovation, technology, and customer service. With a strong platform and a broad customer base, First Advantage is well-positioned to continue its growth trajectory in the years to come.
Footnotes
Innovation and Future Prospects
First Advantage has long been committed to providing innovative products and services to help clients manage risk and hire the best talent. As the company moves into 2024, it is well positioned to continue this mission and expand its offerings even further.
One area where First Advantage is poised for growth is in the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to enhance its background screening capabilities. By leveraging these technologies, the company can more quickly and accurately identify potential risks and provide clients with deeper insights into their candidates. This will not only help clients make better hiring decisions but also streamline the screening process, saving time and resources.
Another key area of focus for First Advantage is in expanding its global footprint. With operations in more than 25 countries, the company is well positioned to help clients navigate the complexities of hiring and screening candidates in different regions. By continuing to expand its international reach, First Advantage can help clients stay ahead of the curve and find the best talent no matter where it is located.
Finally, First Advantage is committed to staying at the forefront of industry trends and developments. This includes staying up to date on new regulations and compliance requirements, as well as exploring new technologies and approaches to background screening. By staying ahead of the curve, the company can continue to provide innovative solutions and insights to help clients manage risk and hire the best talent.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I verify the legitimacy of a First Advantage background check?
First Advantage is a reputable provider of background screening services. If you have concerns about the legitimacy of a background check conducted by First Advantage, you can contact their customer support team at (866) 788-8280 or email them at clientsupport@fadv.com.
What substances are typically screened for in a First Advantage drug test?
First Advantage offers a comprehensive drug screening service that can detect a wide range of substances. The specific substances that are tested for can vary depending on the employer’s requirements and the type of drug test being conducted. Common substances that are screened for include marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, and PCP.
How can I find the nearest First Advantage office location?
To find the nearest First Advantage office location, you can visit their website at https://fadv.com/contact-us/ and use their office locator tool. Alternatively, you can contact their customer support team at (866) 788-8280 or email them at clientsupport@fadv.com for assistance.
What are the career opportunities available at First Advantage?
First Advantage offers a range of career opportunities in various fields, including sales, customer service, operations, and technology. To view current job openings and learn more about working at First Advantage, you can visit their careers page at https://fadv.com/careers/.
How can individuals contact First Advantage via email?
Individuals can contact First Advantage via email at clientsupport@fadv.com. This email address is primarily for their clients, but individuals can also use it to inquire about background checks or other services.
What is the average processing time for a Walmart background check conducted by First Advantage?
The processing time for a Walmart background check conducted by First Advantage can vary depending on various factors, such as the complexity of the check and the availability of information. However, the average processing time is typically between 3-5 business days. If you have any questions about the status of your background check, you can contact Walmart’s HR department or First Advantage’s customer support team for assistance.
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