What do you say when doing a reference check
Say that you know, of course, that no candidate is perfect. but that it's useful to know as much as possible about the applicant to confirm.Provide warm recommendations when possible.Many employers, in particular, will say good things about you, but they will also often balance this by making a note, even if it is only in passing, of your weaknesses.A common reference checking format asks you to provide this information about the former employee.I'd love a chance to ask a few quick questions about the culture.
You should also make sure that your feedback is relevant and is not related to any personal likes or dislikes.Make sure your candidate is aware that you'll be doing so, and explicitly ask the candidate if you can contact their references, either before or as part of their interview.Can i tell them the truth?Be sure you're only asking and answering the right (and legal) questions.These should generally be professional references from previous employers.
On the phone, be sure to verify the reference's role in relation to the applicant.Getting rid of this person was the best thing i ever did.Ensure you're getting accurate information.A reference provided by the candidate may, in turn, refer you to other individuals who can provide additional information.Ideally, references should be people who directly worked with the candidate on a daily basis within the last five to seven years.
Even if you've mentioned in the job posting that you may be conducting reference checks, be sure to ask for consent.Your reference should easily cite one or two situations that highlight your strengths.Identify yourself, your title, organization name and tell them you are calling about a reference for a candidate you are considering ask if now is a good time to talk or whether they would rather schedule a call at a later time make sure they understand that you have the consent from the applicant and that all responses will remain confidential