What is a reference check?

Reference checks are commonly carried out towards the final stages of the recruitment process. Their purpose is to gather valuable insights about a particular candidate by seeking feedback from their current and former co-workers. The feedback is usually obtained through phone calls or emails, where the references are asked a series of questions pertaining to the applicants performance and character. This crucial step aids in making well-informed hiring decisions and gaining a more comprehensive understanding of the candidates suitability for the role.

The reference checking process follows a straightforward approach. The candidate furnishes a list of individuals, including current and former co-workers, managers, and professors, who possess firsthand knowledge of their workplace skills and attributes. Your task, as the employer, is to use the provided contact information to reach out to each reference. During this interaction, you will pose a series of questions, such as evaluating the candidates ability to work effectively in a team setting. This systematic procedure ensures a comprehensive assessment of the candidates qualifications and compatibility for the position.

Why reference checks are important in background checking?

There are several reasons for conducting reference checks that included :

Get relevant information :

References serve as one of the most valuable sources for obtaining work-related information about the applicant. In many cases, they might be the sole source, aside from the candidate, who can provide first hand insights into the applicants workplace performance and on-the-job skills. Relying on references ensures a more well-rounded and informed evaluation of the candidates suitability for the role.

Determine fit for job :

As a hiring manager or HR professional, you are well aware that possessing the right skill set is just one aspect to contemplate while choosing the ideal candidate. Alongside job fit, you also seek a candidate who aligns well with the bosss management style and fits seamlessly into the company culture. Considering these additional factors ensures a more comprehensive and successful hiring decision.

Verify applicants’ detailed information :

Reference checking offers a crucial advantage by enabling you to validate the information presented on the applicants resume and job application. When conducting reference checks, dont hesitate to request verification of specific details, such as job title, responsibilities, workplace duties, training, and skill sets from the references. In reality, current and former co-workers often serve as the most reliable individuals to assess the candidates skills and abilities accurately. Their insights contribute significantly to making well-informed hiring decisions.

Identify red flags :

Reference checks offer an additional advantage by alerting you to potential issues with the candidate. For instance, if the references responses do not align with the information provided on the applicants resume and job application, it could indicate that the candidate may have exaggerated or embellished certain skills and experiences. Being mindful of such discrepancies during reference checks helps in identifying possible misrepresentations and ensures a more accurate assessment of the candidates qualifications and integrity.