HCI Webinar Recap: A Transparent and Ethical Background Check Process, with Chris Harper

In the latest HCI Webinar, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Chris Harper about a transparent and ethical background check process. Below is a summary of the main points from their conversation! Check out the full episode and let us know what you think!

Watch the episode here:

Quick Recap

Christopher Harper, CEO and co-founder of Zip Script, discussed the company's focus on transparent and ethical background checks, particularly in relation to their education verification platform. He also highlighted the importance of candidates providing information for background checks quickly to improve their chances of securing jobs or educational opportunities, and the emerging trend of social media checks. The conversation also touched on the potential use of background checks and verification in various contexts, including student data and student lending, and the company's innovative approach to the background check industry.

Zip Script's Transparent Background Checks

Christopher Harper, CEO and co-founder of Zip Script, introduces himself and his company. He explains that Zip Script was founded three years ago, emerging from his experience running a cocktail mixer business. Christopher is joining the conversation from Toronto, which he describes as the main hub for business and technology in Canada. The discussion is set to focus on transparent and ethical background checks, particularly in relation to Zip Script's education verification platform.

Background Check Process and Digital Footprint

Christopher discusses the background check process and his company's focus on education and employment verification. He emphasizes the importance of candidates quickly providing information for background checks to improve their chances of securing jobs or educational opportunities. Christopher notes that background checks are less invasive than many online activities and require candidate permission. He also mentions the emerging trend of social media checks, which his company doesn't participate in. These checks involve creating scores based on a person's online presence, including comments and interactions on social media platforms. Christopher advises being aware of one's digital footprint, as private accounts may not be completely safe from scrutiny. He stresses that people may be losing job opportunities due to their social media presence without realizing it.

Innovative Background Check User Experience

Christopher discussed the company's innovative approach to the background check industry, focusing on the end user's experience and data verification. He proposed a future where end users could verify their own data, such as degrees and employment, and potentially share in the revenue generated from its use. Christopher also mentioned the company's consideration of blockchain technology for future payments to end users.

Background Checks in Education Verification

Jonathan and Christopher discussed the potential use of background checks and verification in various contexts, including student data and student lending. Christopher introduced the National Student Clearinghouse, a legacy provider in the education verification space, and expressed concerns about their business model and profit margins. He suggested that the company could be more transparent and consider using their revenue to assist with student loan programs. Jonathan agreed with Christopher's points and highlighted the ongoing debate in the US about the cost of higher education and student loan forgiveness.

Christopher's Final Words of Wisdom

Jonathan concludes the conversation by thanking Christopher for his participation and asking him to share how the audience can connect with him. Christopher directs people to find him on LinkedIn or visit zipscript.com. He leaves a final message encouraging listeners to make the world more efficient and happy. Jonathan wraps up the session, encouraging the audience to reach out to Christopher and wishing everyone well.

Listen to the webinar here: