The Right and Wrong Way To Check References
“Matthew, should I bother to check references before I hire someone?”
This is a pretty common question, and the answer is, definitely. And if you’re going to do it, do it right.
These are some of the best practices we recommend:
✔️ Always disclose to the candidate that you check references. Even if you ask for references up front, candidates won’t always assume you’re going to check them. Be transparent about this so there are no surprises.
✔️ Do use a tool like SkillSurvey Reference. It is better, faster, and cheaper than checking references manually, and it manages liability issues automatically.
✔️ Conduct a reference check after your first interview. Reference checks provide loads of valuable information on your prospective new hire, and if you identify any areas of concern in the reference survey you can further explore them during the second interview.
The one exception I would make to this rule? You might not need to do a reference check on boomerang employees.
The Source and Recruit Company is committed to helping small and medium size businesses maximize their odds of making great hires. To order a SkillSurvey Reference Survey, click the link below.
