Just like planning a summer getaway, preparing for hiring decisions takes the right level of detail.
As the summer months roll in, many organizations ramp up hiring for seasonal positions, temporary contracts, or project-based work. Just like you wouldn’t pack for a trip without checking the weather, you shouldn’t onboard someone new without understanding who they really are. Whether you’re hiring a summer intern or a full-time professional, ensuring the safety and integrity of your workplace starts with the right type of background check. But what kind do you need—screening or a full investigation?
Let’s break it down.
Screening: A Quick Check of the Forecast
Background screening is like glancing at a weather app before heading to the beach—it gives you a snapshot. Screenings are typically fast, automated, and designed to confirm key information such as:
· Identity verification
· National criminal records
· Verification of employment, education, motor vehicle record
· Sex offender registry search
This is ideal for roles with limited risk or access, or where time is of the essence. Screenings are essential, but they are surface-level. They tell you if the “weather” looks generally safe—but not whether a storm might be forming beyond the horizon.
Investigation: Your Full Travel Itinerary
A background investigation, on the other hand, is far more thorough—like planning an entire trip down to lodging, safety advisories, and local customs. Investigations go deeper to identify potential risks and evaluate suitability, especially for positions of trust or those that require compliance with federal laws such as:
· Public Law 101-630 (Indian Child Protection and Family Violence Prevention Act)
· 25 CFR Part 63 requirements
· Federal Adjudicative Guidelines for law enforcement or correctional positions
These may include:
· Detailed Personal Subject Interviews and Supervisor interviews
· Review of financial history and civil litigation
· FBI fingerprint-based checks
· Specialty searches through Tribal Courts or other hand pulled records
Full background investigations take more time, but they provide peace of mind—especially for roles involving children, vulnerable populations, or access to sensitive information.
When to Use Which?
· Use Screening for: Entry-level, short-term, or low-risk roles
· Use Full Background Investigations for: Supervisory, high-trust, or federally regulated positions
Why It Matters
Skipping a thorough review in favor of a quick screen can leave your organization exposed to unnecessary risk. Just as skipping sunscreen on a sunny day can have lasting effects, cutting corners on background vetting can come back to burn you.
Our Advice: Match the Heat with the Right Protection
At PSC and 1st Defense Screening Solutions, we tailor our services to fit your needs—offering both efficient background screening and full investigative support, always grounded in federal compliance and Tribal values.
Whether you’re planning a summer hire or preparing for fall, we’re here to help you do it right—because our communities deserve peace of mind.
Michele Justice, President
Personnel Security Consultants, Inc.
