Final Rule: OFCCP Definition of Internet Applicant

October 7, 2005 - The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) released the final rule covering the definition of an Internet Applicant. This new rule, which will take effect on February 6, 2006, requires that companies track and identify all Internet applicants.

The final rule defines an Internet applicant as an individual that meets the following criteria:

• The individual submits an expression of interest in employment through the Internet or related electronic data technologies;
• The contractor considers the individual for employment in a particular position;
• The individual's expression of interest indicates the individual possesses the basic qualifications for the position; and
• The individual at no point in the contractor's selection process prior to receiving an offer of employment from the contractor, removes himself or herself from further consideration or otherwise indicates that he or she is no longer interested in the position.

It is important to note with this new rule that all individuals that apply to jobs that a contractor posts online and meet the criteria mentioned above are considered Internet applicants. For example, if a job is posted on a contractor's web site, individuals who apply both online and by sending a paper resume are considered Internet applicants, as long as the meet the four criteria. The contractor must request self-identification information from all individuals that they identify as applicants.

SpeedEEO provides the ability to track all applicants as part of the free Personnel Activity Service available with all completed plans. The Applicant Tracking screen will allow companies the ability to identify and track all Internet applicants.

Click here to review the OFCCP Definition of an Internet Applicant.