HireRight, a leading global provider of background screening and workforce management solutions, today released its 2025 Global Benchmark Report, offering a data-driven view of the hiring, screening, and talent acquisition landscape. The report draws on the insights of more than 1,000 HR, risk, and talent acquisition professionals surveyed between February 11 and March 9, 2025.
The annual report highlights a significant pivot toward accuracy in background screening, with a declining emphasis on speed and cost—marking a notable shift in employer priorities in an increasingly complex global hiring environment.
“As the economic and hiring landscape continues to shift, the findings in HireRight’s 2025 Global Benchmark Report give an insight into current global perspectives on background screening, hiring trends, and the use of new technologies, such as AI, in the recruitment process,” said Euan Menzies, President and CEO of HireRight.
Insights from the 2025 Report
Accuracy Tops Employer Priorities
-
For the third consecutive year, accuracy of screening results remains the top criterion in choosing a screening provider.
-
Fewer respondents cited cost or speed as key factors—indicating a growing willingness to invest in quality and precision over short-term savings.
Discrepancies Remain Prevalent
-
Over 75% of businesses identified candidate discrepancies during screening in the last 12 months.
-
Common issues include undisclosed criminal convictions, as well as education and employment misrepresentations.
ID Fraud Still Underaddressed
-
Despite increasing cases of identity fraud, many companies still forgo ID checks.
-
One in six organizations confirmed experiencing ID fraud, while 30% remain unsure of its occurrence in their hiring processes.
AI in Hiring: An Uncharted Frontier
-
70% of respondents are undecided on how to approach candidate use of generative AI in applications and resumes.
-
Of those with an opinion, more viewed AI usage positively than negatively, hinting at a possible softening of attitudes toward AI-assisted job applications.
Remote Work & Talent Challenges
-
The lack of remote work options was the top reason for candidate drop-off in 2024.
-
Other top regional hiring challenges included:
-
North America & APAC: Roles unfilled for 3–6 months
-
EMEA: Understaffed HR and recruitment functions
-
Outlook for 2025
-
Top anticipated talent acquisition issues include:
-
Difficulty finding qualified candidates
-
Candidates ghosting employers
-
Multiple job offers diluting candidate engagement
-
Misalignment on pay and benefits expectations
-
Strategic Takeaway for HR Leaders
The 2025 Benchmark Report signals a broader recalibration of hiring and compliance practices. With employers prioritizing accuracy, integrity, and adaptability, and with new variables such as AI usage and identity verification gaps entering the equation, HR and risk teams are being urged to revisit traditional processes and policies.
Business Wire, a Berkshire Hathaway company, is the global leader in press release distribution and regulatory disclosure. Public relations, investor relations, public policy and marketing professionals rely on Business Wire for secure and accurate distribution of market-moving news and multimedia. Founded in 1961, Business Wire is a trusted source for news organizations, journalists, investment professionals and regulatory authorities, delivering news directly into editorial systems and leading online news sources via its multi-patented NX network. Business Wire’s global newsrooms are available to meet the needs of communications professionals and news media worldwide.
