How do you balance the need for thoroughness and timeliness in volunteer background checks?

1 Define your requirements

The first step is to define your requirements for volunteer background checks. What kind of information do you need to verify? How often do you need to update it? What level of risk are you willing to accept? Depending on your organization's mission, goals, and policies, you may need to check different sources, such as criminal records, driving records, education, references, or social media. You may also need to comply with local, state, or federal laws and regulations that apply to your sector or activity. Make sure you have a clear and consistent criteria for screening volunteers and communicate it to them upfront.

2 Choose a reliable provider

The next step is to choose a reliable provider for volunteer background checks. There are many options available, from online platforms to specialized agencies. However, not all providers are created equal. You need to consider factors such as accuracy, speed, cost, security, and customer service. Do some research and compare different providers based on their features, reviews, and reputation. Ask for referrals from other organizations or networks that use volunteer background checks. You may also want to test a few providers before committing to one.

3 Automate and integrate

The third step is to automate and integrate your volunteer background check process. This means using tools and systems that can streamline and simplify the workflow and reduce human errors. For example, you can use online forms, databases, or software that can collect, store, and analyze volunteer data. You can also use platforms or applications that can connect and sync with your provider and your volunteer management system. This way, you can avoid duplication, inconsistency, and delays in your volunteer background check process.

4 Monitor and evaluate

The fourth step is to monitor and evaluate your volunteer background check process. This means tracking and measuring the performance and outcomes of your process and your provider. For example, you can use indicators such as turnaround time, completion rate, error rate, or satisfaction rate. You can also use feedback from volunteers, staff, or stakeholders to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, or threats. By monitoring and evaluating your volunteer background check process, you can ensure its quality, efficiency, and effectiveness.

5 Update and improve

The fifth step is to update and improve your volunteer background check process. This means reviewing and adjusting your process and your provider based on the results of your monitoring and evaluation. For example, you can update your requirements, change your provider, or implement new tools or systems. You can also improve your process by adopting best practices, learning from others, or seeking professional advice. By updating and improving your volunteer background check process, you can keep up with the changing needs and expectations of your organization and your volunteers.

6 Balance and prioritize

The sixth step is to balance and prioritize your volunteer background check process. This means finding the optimal trade-off between thoroughness and timeliness in your process and your provider. For example, you can balance the depth and breadth of your checks with the speed and cost of your provider. You can also prioritize the urgency and importance of your checks based on the role and impact of your volunteers. By balancing and prioritizing your volunteer background check process, you can maximize its value and benefit for your organization and your volunteers.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?