The Hiring Process and Reference Checks

Examining references is an important step in recruiting people for a job. This process lets you see if the person is good for the job. Reference checks help you make sure each person meets all the qualifications.

The reference check process can be complicated for the candidate and their current or former employer (the source of the reference). This can lead to a conflict because:

• The source may be afraid to say anything negative about the applicant because they might get sued.
• The source might worry that their current employee is looking for another job and they will leave if they find one.
• The applicant does not want to list their present employer as a reference, fearing that their boss will find out about their search for another position and be mad at them.
  

To ensure a successful reference check and reduce any potential conflict, keep the following tips in mind:

• It is important to respect the candidate's privacy. Make sure you have written permission from the candidate before you contact any of their references. It is also important that all information you collect stays compliant with regulations in the Privacy Act.
• Tell the person you are asking for a reference that you want someone who would be a "good fit" for the job. You want someone who would be successful in the role and who would also benefit from being connected to you.
• Keep asking questions to find out if the person is good for the job. You can also tell the person your own stories to help them feel more comfortable.
• Make it easy for people to give you their honest opinion about the person you are thinking of hiring, even if it is not what you want to hear. Show that you care about what is best for the applicant and for yourself. This shows that you know their abilities and that you think they are important.

As you move forward in the process, make sure that you confirm at least three references. If any doubts are remaining, then get more information from other sources to relieve those concerns.

Conducting the reference check: Key tips

• Be prepared and be as brief as possible
• Take notes to compare with stakeholders
• Clarify the relationship between the reference source and the candidate
• Clarify the position(s) that the candidate had while working for the source
• Ask for specific information
• Ask questions relevant to the job
• Ask about relationships and behaviors (e.g., how do they show leadership or initiative?)
• If the source is not the current employer, ask why the candidate left the organization and whether the source would rehire this person (and why or why not)
• If requested, keep the information from the source confidential
• Ask if there is anything else they would like to add about the candidate