We include developments from the Staffing Industry Daily News and The Staffing Stream to help you focus on emerging movements that could shape your business for the better.

Trends_181112_WomenTechKeep Trying

More is needed to improve working environments for women in tech.

In a survey by global staffing firm Harvey Nash, 31% of respondents said their organizations provide career development programs for women, a 41% increase from the previous two years. And 29% said their companies offer programs to support the recruiting and hiring of women in technology.

However, only 30% of women believe their company pays men and women equally. And the number of women who said their work environment remains unwelcoming increased to 35% from 30% in a similar survey last year.


Trends_181112_BackCheck

Conducting Screens

The regulatory landscape on background screening is constantly changing.

As an employer, you need to screen job candidates and run rechecks on existing employees to deliver safe, reliable service to your customers. Meanwhile, the industry is highly regulated. Employers need to be familiar and compliant with these regulations when conducting screens. Some key legislative hurdles: Fair Credit Reporting Act. The FCRA outlines how to inform candidates of background checks, how to use associated data, and how to manage the data once a check is complete.

Ban the Box. “Ban-the-Box” laws prevent employers from asking job applicants about their criminal history on the initial applications. Currently, more than 15 states and more than 100 cities and counties have adopted laws associated with “Ban the Box.”

The on-demand economy is revolutionizing consumer behavior — whether customers want an on-demand landscaper, doctor, stylist, massage therapist or another type of service provider — trust, safety and professionalism are essential. It is still early days for the emerging regulatory landscape in the gig economy. However, it is clear background checks are a key focal point for compliance in the sharing economy.

Source: “Background Screening Compliance in a Shared Economy,” The Staffing Stream, Vincenza Caruso-Valente, senior VP, account management, Sterling Talent Solutions.