Effective reference checking can be a valuable tool in the hiring process, as it can provide valuable insights into a candidate's skills, work ethic, and character. Here are some tips for conducting effective reference checks:?
- Plan ahead: Before beginning the reference check process, make sure you have a clear plan in place, including a list of questions you want to ask and a timeline for completing the process.?
- Get permission: Make sure to get the candidate's permission before contacting any references, and also ensure that you are complying with any legal requirements around reference checking.?
- Ask open-ended questions: Rather than asking yes/no questions, ask open-ended questions that encourage the reference to share their experiences and opinions about the candidate. Examples might include: "Can you tell me about a time when the candidate went above and beyond in their work?" or "What were the candidate's strengths and weaknesses in their previous role?"?
- Be consistent: Use the same set of questions for each reference, so that you can compare answers and get a more accurate picture of the candidate's strengths and weaknesses.?
- Verify information: Confirm any information that the candidate has provided on their resume or in their application, such as job titles, dates of employment, and responsibilities.?
- Listen carefully: Pay close attention to the tone and content of the reference's responses, and follow up on any concerns or red flags that they may raise.?
- Keep it professional: Remember that reference checks are part of the hiring process, and maintain a professional tone and demeanor throughout the conversation. Avoid asking personal or discriminatory questions.?
- Follow up: If there are any concerns or issues that arise during the reference check process, make sure to follow up with the candidate and ask for additional information or clarification.?
