Member Benefit: Background Screening Best Practices

March 18, 2021, Department, by NRPA

2021 April We Are Parks and Rec Member Benefit Background Screening Best Practices 410

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Background Investigation Bureau (BIB) and NRPA’s partnership was created to help park and recreation agencies screen better. Here are a few things to keep in mind to help prevent risk:

What is your background check costing you? Budgets already are lean, and not all background checks are the same. The best approach is to ask, “Are we getting the best quality screen for a fair price?” Also, NRPA members receive exclusive pricing on BIB’s Secure Volunteer background screenings!

How healthy is your data? Most information received by states is through county records. Ideally, the information would be correct and complete; however, in many cases, the records are either missing data or inaccurate. You will need to assess what screening methods you are using to get the best data from every state relevant to your applicants.

Are you getting the full story? Inaccuracies in reports can’t provide the detailed information you need when making a hiring decision or preventing a dangerous person from becoming a volunteer. When records or pertinent information are missing, it becomes challenging to make effective hiring decisions. Making sure you’re getting the best data possible from as many sources as possible ensures you’re getting the full story.

What is the turnaround time? While the majority of quality background checks are completed in less than 72 hours, most delays experienced are related to jurisdictions being searched. For example, a court runner is physically going to a courthouse. While this is a highly effective process, it can lead to longer turnaround times because of court access hours, staff or technology available. It’s important for you to know of any jurisdictions you may be accessing regularly that could drive common delays.

For more information on how your agency can develop the best background screening methodology, visit bib.com. NRPA members will gain immediate peace of mind knowing that your volunteers and employees are well-vetted using some of the most powerful and advanced background checks available.