A Word of Caution

Over the past year, we have encountered unexpected setbacks in a surprising arena: Drug Testing.

The candidates we work with are, by and large, established direct and online marketing professionals. They are not entry level. Most are people who have been in the workforce for at least 5 years, many for over 25 years. They have proven track records of success, and lengthy durations of tenure with their employers.

It has come as something of a shock that in 2010 we were at the point of finalizing placements with 2 different candidates up for positions for 2 different employers when they failed the drug test.

Follicle hair testing can detect use of drugs over the prior 90 days. A hair follicle drug test measures the drug molecules and their specific metabolites that are produced only after the drug has been processed by the human body. After the drug is processed, trace amounts of its metabolites are inserted into hair follicle by the bloodstream.

Although our candidates insist their use of drugs was limited to occasional, recreational use of marijuana, our clients rescinded the offers of employment. It is certainly true that workers impaired by illegal drugs can threaten the safety and productivity of a business. At the very least, drug use demonstrates a disregard for the law. We stand behind ethical companies conducting responsible hiring processes.

And yet…It has been a frustrating, and very revealing, experience for us as recruiters. Do I think that if hired, these candidates could have performed admirably in their new positions? Yes. But they will not have the opportunity to do so.

So here are my words of caution:

Although you may think that what you are doing over the weekend is your own business, if you are engaged in a job search, it may just be your prospective employer’s business, too. Be aware that many companies are conducting drug tests, and think twice about indulging in illegal drug use if you are pursuing a new position.

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