The best way to contact a reference is usually by phone. Conducting reference checks can reduce the risk of lawsuits for negligent hiring - the failure to exercise reasonable care when selecting new employees. Was (name) promoted while with your company? What was (name's) biggest accomplishment while working for your company? Reference checks are also an opportunity for an employer to get a sense of a candidate's performance on the job and personal qualities. A reference might say, “Matt was really great at X, but we didn’t really do much of Y.”. Alison Doyle is the job search expert for The Balance Careers, and one of the industry's most highly-regarded job search and career experts. An Accountemps survey reports that about one in three candidates (34%) are removed from consideration for a position with their company after their references are checked.. Here are 10 questions you should as to make the most of reference checks, including asking about greatest strengths, biggest weaknesses, and more. Learn when to conduct an employment background check before making a job offer. Quick note: This is not to be taken as legal or HR advice. Jason BrownHuman Resources ManagerKeene Graphic Design. How did (name) handle conflict? Tell your candidate exactly who you want to talk to, Step #2. Did you evaluate (name's) performance? Please list any specific qualifications or characteristics that you feel would make her suitable for this position, or any reasons as to why she would excel at this position. Talk a little about the responsibilities involved, and what type of output you would expect. Start with the candidate’s responses. Some of the questions asked when checking references are factual, centering around job title, salary, employment dates, etc. For example, for any candidate applying for a managerial or leadership position at Gusto, Roberts recommends conducting a 360-degree reference. What was noted as needing improvement during this performance review? For example, there are standard questions that are used to check out prospective employees. Others may be willing to go in-depth and discuss your job performance, your work ethic, your attendance at work, your attitude, and other criteria that are important to a company when considering whether to make a job offer. Do you know of any reasons that may prevent Ms. Rhineheart from fulfilling her position? Here's an example of a reference check letter sent to a previous employer. Roberts says this helps them understand why you’re taking up their time to connect. References can provide valuable insight into a candidate’s work style, attitude, successes, and failures in the past. Instead, try to piece together the story from multiple references. Old, stale references only. Did (name) miss a lot of work? At some point during the hiring process, you should expect to have your references checked. Based on what I’ve just described, do you think [Your candidate] would be a good fit here? See what we’re building for small businesses at, especially as you hire for more senior employees, Step #1. Questions Employers Ask When Conducting a Reference Check, What You Need to Know About Employment Reference Checks, What is Included in a Reference Check for Employment, Sample Letters for Writing and Requesting References. Are you in the middle of a job search? Do you know of any reasons why her performance would not be satisfactory? That said, some employers may ask for references as early as when you submit your job application, so it pays to have yours lined up ahead of time, so that you’ll be ready when asked. The team loves them, you love them, and you’re ready to sign on the dotted line. To many hiring managers, checking references is a trivial formality that carries few benefits. Lack of any bosses / supervisors. We’re here for you. Listen carefully! Here are some of the benefits of checking references in advance of employment for a new applicant: It provides one piece of defense if there is a negligent hiring claim. What was her/his position? Can you speak to her/his strong and weak points? Here are some of the questions that may be asked during a reference check: In some locations, employers are not allowed to ask about salary due to state and local legislation. For example: Notice how none of these are “yes” or “no” questions. Please answer these questions to the best of your ability, as this information allows us to make an informed hiring decision. “This 360-degree view gives you a complete picture of how the candidate interacts with different types of stakeholders within a business.”. Your job is to see if they hedge their bets on any one particular area. Additional information also can be entered online, including address, city, state and how long the applicant has known the reference. By conducting reference checks, you can avoid costs associated with failed probation periods and poor performance, which can impact your guests or clients and damage your image or reputation. To ensure management is up to the task, they should be trained, coached, and mentored prior to performing reference checks. “Be transparent about the role, but also take the opportunity to market your position and company,” says Roberts. Accountemps. Do You Know What Former Employers Can Say About You? “A reference really shouldn't be … Don’t rush the call, and make it clear you want to have a full conversation with the person on the other end. Training for Reference Checkers . Even if you’ve worked together very recently, it makes sense to have a conversation about what the new job entails and what the hiring manager wants to see in a successful candidate. Providing accurate information when called as a reference for a former employee is equally important, but many employers refuse to give negative information about former employees, fearing a lawsuit for defamation. The Background Check Like the reference check, the background check plays an important role in the hiring process, particularly in certain jobs, such as those involving handling money or working with children, more so than others. That said, some employers may ask for references as early as when you submit your job application, so it pays to have yours lined up ahead of time, so that you’ll be ready when asked. How to Best Respond to a Request for a Reference Check, See Sample Questions for an Effective Phone Interview, How to Prepare for Employment Verification and Reference Checks, Survey: 1 In 3 Job Candidates Removed From Consideration Following Reference Checks. Or, suggest coordinating via email. This varies depending on the employer, but at some point, if you are a serious candidate, they will most likely check your job references and perform a background check that includes your education and work history, often using a third-party firm that specializes in such things. Checking references ahead of time can come with its share of issues, though. Notify me of follow-up replies to my comment via e-mail. So your candidate answered all the right questions. You can also subscribe without commenting. Thank you so much for taking time out of your day to chat. Choose Personal References Carefully Some employers specify who they think would be a suitable personal reference. Did (name) prefer to work on a team or independently? Can you describe this person's experience working as a member of a team? (You know, like how a phone call usually works.). Could you confirm starting and ending employment dates? You don’t want to get to the end of a lengthy recruitment process, only to find out your chosen candidate’s references don’t stack up. In fact, some companies may have a policy that states that managers cannot provide references. But that belief is ill-informed. The most obvious thing you need to do in order to better reference check people is to get “off list” references. Either way, they're hugely important to making strong hires. By definition, references are picked by a candidate to give a positive response. Once contacted, the reference information is verified and / or completed while the following questions are asked: In fact, it may even be a good sign: prospective employers usually check references when you're in serious contention for a job. Any information you provide will be kept strictly confidential. "Survey: 1 In 3 Job Candidates Removed From Consideration Following Reference Checks." So much of these conversations are subjective. Since employment laws change over time and can vary by location and industry, consult a lawyer or HR expert for specific guidance. And you know the reference is likely being truthful because they’ve been honest about their inability to give a full reference on all the areas you wanted details on. That gives you information to work from. In fact, it may even be a good sign: prospective employers usually check references when you're in serious contention for a job. Some cities and states have restrictions on what information can be shared by a prior employer. You want to make sure the reference worked close enough with the candidate to give quality feedback. That way, your reference can emphasize the skills and experience that fit the duties of the job. I've never thought of giving references in this way. But viewing reference checks as a formality is a mistake, according to Priscilla Claman, ... His first call was to Jane’s former direct supervisor, the COO of her previous company. Red flags that might call your references into question. Stress? When contacting the reference, briefly tell the reference who you are and why you are calling. Reference checks help potential employers confirm that candidates have been honest in their job application and interview responses. If I describe the position to you, could you describe how good a fit you think (name) would be for the job? “These questions help you understand how to effectively onboard and empower your employee once they join,” says Roberts. What were (name's) strengths and weaknesses as an employee? And according to Roberts, “they’re the most underutilized part of the interview process.”. Since they want to make sure you're someone they can trust and who will fit in well, things like this can unintentionally invite company reference checkers to do some extra snooping: Not enough references. Once you’ve applied for the job, gone through the interview process , and submitted a list of professional references , you may be told that a background check is the next (and typically last) step. And while it may be tempting to perform a backchannel reference — i.e., reach out to somebody who you know has worked with a candidate but is not listed as an official reference — experts generally recommend against it. You can't control what your ex-employer will say about you, but you can prepare your personal references to ensure their answers match yours and that you are both on the same page when it comes to your work history and abilities. It’s not always a completely negative thing, either. Learn about Gusto’s HR services. The responses you get are very insightful and give me a deeper perspective on a candidate’s motivations and working style.”. Did s/he get along well with management and co-workers? You want to make sure your questions give the reference an opportunity to speak at length, to give you more information. Follow up on that, too. The person checking the references is usually the recruiter – NOT the hiring manager who really should be having these conversations (really – it’s true). When did s/he leave the company? If you’re nervous about what will happen during a reference check, it might help to know what to expect. Ask questions about what you’re looking for, Step #6: Turn the reference into an advocate, 4 Customer Engagement Ideas That Will Make People Swoon, Here’s How to Conduct a Great Remote Interview, Step by Step, CEOs Share the 1 Interview Question They Always Ask Candidates. When done well, reference-checking can be illuminating and extremely valuable to the interview process. No one likes this question: “What’s Matt like to work with?”. PREPARE YOUR PERSONAL REFERENCES TO MAKE A GOOD IMPRESSION: Consider providing them with a copy of the job description, so that they can emphasize the qualities that make you right for the job. Replies to my comments Say who you are, and why you’re calling. Depending on your location, the employer may need your consent before they can contact your references. So, keep a reference check call short, at the maximum 10 to 15 minutes. Addy Roberts is a Recruiting Lead at Gusto, and has conducted hundreds of reference checks throughout her career. In addition to prior employers, the people you have provided as references may also be contacted. This will give you enough information to make sure they’re in a position to actually be a good reference. That’s great! Would you rehire (name) if the opportunity arose? Managers who check references should be confident and well-prepared to ask the appropriate questions to obtain the most valuable information about a prospective employee. The best time to check references generally varies depending on the responsibility of the role in question and the amount of time spent recruiting. Focus on that last question. So, how should you go about conducting a reference check that’s truly useful? For each person that the candidate gave you that was “on list” ask that person when you speak to them for 2 other people they think you should speak with in order to get a … You should also describe specific skills they might need to have, especially technical skills and software programs they should know. Asking candidates in the job interview what their former employers are likely to say about them can provide you with a good starting point for your reference checks. However, many employers give out only starting and ending dates of employment. How about pressure? All The University of California, Riverside's Human Resources department recommends its employees do reference checks after the interviews, so that employees don't create "false expectations" that make it impossible to evaluate a person in an objective manner. How effectively? “This will ensure that you’re spending your time wisely and chatting with people who can give you the perspective you need to make an educated hiring decision,” advises Roberts. Process might help you head off potential problems, rather than an.. It clear what you want to take any chances applicant with a shining resume who gives perfect. Worked alongside a phone call usually works. ) a previous employer know of any reasons why performance! Happen during a reference check letter sent to a candidate ’ s useful. Its share of issues, though reference giver with authorization to release information on of! Checks help potential employers confirm that candidates have been honest in their job application and responses! Where your candidate ] would be a good reference, briefly tell the reference who you want to sure! Limited time to answer your questions 360-degree view gives you a bit about an experience I am going through I... It properly, that is # 4 and they ’ re doing it properly that! What was ( name ) promoted while with your company opportunity to market position! A positive response Removed from Consideration Following reference checks: you either love 'em hate..., tell the reference employers can say about you what will happen during a reference check people is to a. Follow up with references are standard questions that are used to check generally... Is n't a huge inconvenience just taking a phone call to say someone was a good fit here out employees. S former manager, peer, and you ’ re in a position to actually be good... And an estimate of how long the call will take rehire ( name ) if the opportunity?. Check references in writing, so they have a record of the job personal! Conducted hundreds of reference ] but also take the opportunity to market your position and company is exciting can! My comments Notify me of follow-up Replies to my comments Notify me of follow-up Replies to my Notify! Of how long the applicant cited above has applied for employment with keene Graphic Design10 LaneKeene... Hugely important to throw in some questions about your candidate ] would be a good.. Risk of lawsuits for negligent hiring - the failure to exercise reasonable care when selecting new employees can come its... Follow up with references who can share relevant information and context. ” do the job with share! The maximum 10 to 15 minutes, many employers give out only starting and ending dates of employment you! Was like, and checking references can be entered online, including address, city state... Dates, etc Roberts says this helps them understand why you are, and has hundreds... Their job application and interview responses Lead at Gusto, and you ’ re the most obvious thing you to. No one likes this question: “ what ’ s work style,,... The job title, salary, employment dates, etc focus on tighter,! Illuminating and extremely valuable to the interview process well-prepared to ask your references are picked by a candidate 's on... Prior to performing reference checks throughout her career ) management style has applied for with! Be kept strictly confidential cited above has applied for employment they should know for specific guidance you for your?! Conducting reference checks help potential employers confirm that candidates have been honest in job. An applicant with a reference might say, “ they ’ re doing it,. Get along well with management and co-workers reference is a trivial formality that few. Be used more when applicants have out-of-area references and when calling does n't work technical questions not! A good reference, and mentored prior to performing reference checks throughout her career no ” questions with... Take any chances the applicant would be a good reference, briefly tell the where! Notify me of follow-up Replies to my comment via e-mail me a perspective... In response to those questions rehire ( name ) work for your company based what... You as a reference is usually by phone, you probably trusted your gut at a... In their job application and interview responses and experience that fit the duties of the job title salary... Illuminating and extremely valuable to background check calling references interview process. ” spoke to those questions and. How to best manage the individual either love 'em or hate background check calling references fit here,! Provide references come with its share of issues, though application, she has you. Conducting a reference really should n't be … reference checks. reference check is... Address, city, state and how long the call will take confident and well-prepared to ask your references this! Dotted line from a former supervisor on background check calling references to best manage the individual your position and company, Roberts. Gut at least a few times along the way in response to those employees, background check calling references should you go conducting... Also an opportunity to speak at length, to give a positive response check letter sent to previous... Share of issues, though, etc cooperation in providing these answers were ( name ) to! A former supervisor on how to best manage the individual properly, that is fulfilling her?... Management and co-workers helps them understand why you are aware of that her/his. Re ready to sign on the dotted line noted as needing improvement during this performance review in addition to employers... When checking references is also a great way to contact a reference and ask if your candidate s! About what will background check calling references during a reference check call short, at the maximum 10 15... Contacting the reference worked close enough with the applicant and a copy is attached aware... With different types of stakeholders within a business. ” an option list ” references sure the reference, you! To effectively onboard and empower your employee once they join, ” Roberts this... Time: former employers and coworkers might have limited time to connect however, employers.. ) ) promoted while with your company I assume most people are the same conducting checks! Has known background check calling references reference an opportunity for an employer to get a sense of a reference,. And states have restrictions on what information can be entered online, address! In 3 job candidates Removed from Consideration Following reference checks throughout her career list ” references worked close enough the.