Grace Hill Training Tip of the Week
Avoiding Applicant Screening Pitfalls
Claims of discrimination often arise in relation to the applicant screening process. This can be a tricky area to navigate, and one where even well-intentioned people can find themselves on the wrong end of a discrimination claim.
Here are some tips for conducting applicant screening in a way that complies with fair housing law, and makes all people feel welcome in your community.
Think before you speak.
It is natural to make friendly conversation with prospects during the application process. This is fine but think carefully about questions you ask or comments you make.
For example, asking “Where is your accent from?” or saying “You have such an interesting look!” may seem harmless, but could be viewed as discrimination, particularly if you end up rejecting the applicant for some reason.
Know and comply with your state laws and company policies.
Applicant screening is an area in which it is particularly important to know and follow your state and local laws. Take the time to educate yourself. “I didn’t know” will not be an acceptable defense should you face a discrimination claim.
Your company should have clear policies and procedures for determining which applicants are accepted to live in your community. Follow these policies and procedures at all times, and apply them uniformly to all applicants.
Make sure all applicants understand selection criteria and related policies and procedures. This will help them see that you don’t choose residents arbitrarily; rather you have a standard process that you follow for all applicants.
Ask for a “government-issued photo ID” rather than a driver’s license specifically.
Consult your company’s policies to determine which forms of photo identification are acceptable to verify identity during the application process. However, be mindful that it is better to ask for a “government-issued photo identification” rather than to ask specifically for a driver’s license. Not everyone has a driver’s license, and asking for one could be viewed as discriminatory.
Be consistent in all interactions.
Most importantly, be consistent in all of your interactions with applicants, and follow your company’s policies and procedures in the same way for all applicants.
If you make an exception to any policy or procedure, make sure you provide the same information and options to all applicants who are in the same situation.
Making a habit of treating applicants fairly and equally reduces your risk of discrimination claims and creates a welcoming atmosphere for all people who meet your qualifications and wish to live in your community.
