The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic are far reaching. Businesses and industries are adjusting to major changes, including our own. Below are some of the outcomes our industry is experiencing in the predominant components of the background screening process.
Make sure you prepare your business for all steps of the hiring process as we continue to adjust to these impacts. At Alliance 2020, we are ready for any obstacle to ensure you always receive accurate, comprehensive reports.
Public Record Searches
Court closures and minimal staffing limits the access to records. As a result, expect delays for any necessary searches. Additionally, information obtained online often needs to be verified with a court clerk for accuracy. Until a court clerk can verify the information, we are unable to report the records.
Employment & Education Verifications
Most employment verifications are done via an automated system and are largely unaffected as long as the information is still up to date. On the other hand, education verifications may experience significant delays due to school closures. Transcripts and diplomas must be authenticated by the institution themselves since these documents are easy to falsify.
Drug Screening
Social distancing and precautionary measures will remain in effect at collection sites. Some clinics now provide a text-ahead service that allows individuals to wait in their cars until they receive a text alert for their appointment. It is important to follow all instructions technicians provide to ensure that they can collect samples in a controlled environment that minimizes exposure.
While these components pose challenges within themselves, other factors impact our industry as well. Among those factors is the recent directive of Washington State governor, Jay Inslee, released May 13th. Governor Inslee ordered a hiring freeze to address the significant decline in Washington’s economy.
As a business that assists employers in the hiring process, and also serve many clients in the Greater Seattle area, Puget Sound, and throughout the state, here at Alliance 2020 we are adapting to changing circumstances. We will proudly continue to serve your needs.
