Checking references

Understand the significance of reference checking and master the proper technique for doing so effectively

Reference checks are used as an additional data point when making the hiring decision. It’s an opportunity to ask specific questions about the candidate and their previous experiences from those who have worked with them. Be aware reference checks only work if you ask specific questions about areas or experiences you want to verify. Ask for facts, not opinions.

Unfortunately, reference check calls are often neither valued nor done correctly. Asking the wrong questions can give you information that can derail your decision. In this article, we will help you learn the right questions to ask. 

The Full course “Hiring for Executives” is produced in collaboration with Estonian Business School and is available on the Coursera platform. You can register here.

Let's start by watching the first video below.

Reference Check: Part I

Executive search consultant Tõnis Arro was unsatisfied with the hiring manager’s approach to the reference check calls. Did you notice what mistakes the hiring manager made? 

A properly done position mapping, which we learned about in a previous article, is crucial for a good reference check, just as it is for an interview. Even high-level executives can lie on their resumes, making reference checks a critical step in the hiring process.

There are two main objectives of reference checking:

• Validate the information provided by the candidate;
• Identify any potential issues that require further investigation.

Each reference call should be around 10-20 minutes long, considering the manager's schedule might be full. Two or three reference checks are typically sufficient, and the CEO needs to conduct the reference checks for final candidates. Finally, never contacting a candidate's current employer without explicit permission is advised.

Watch the following video to see the difference between a good and a poor reference check call. 

Reference Check: Part II

What difference did you notice between the first and second reference check calls? 

Asking the right questions is the key. Watch the video below to learn more about what questions make sense during a reference check call. 

Mini-Lecture: What Questions Make Sense During a Reference Check?

When conducting a reference check, it's important to remember that you're seeking information rather than opinions. Typical reference questions should cover the candidate's job duties, responsibilities, objectives, and results to ensure a comprehensive assessment. Additionally, it's crucial to understand why the candidate left their previous job and to inquire about the reasons behind it rather than settling for a vague, mutual consent response.

Here are the types of questions that make sense to ask during a background checking call:

1. Ask what the person knows - for example, whether the candidate worked at all in the capacity they have told you.

2. Ask whether the executive had any issues with this person or whether they thought that this person might develop something of his qualities.

3. Ask whether they would employ them again if they would need this kind of person.

It's best to avoid questions that ask for opinions during a reference check, with a few exceptions. Questions to avoid include asking about the candidate's strengths and weaknesses, what type of manager or leader they are, and their work ethics.

Those are things that the previous employers can't evaluate for you as they are not familiar with your company's needs. Additionally, asking for a rating on a scale of one to ten should be approached cautiously, as it should only serve as a conversation starter and not as a determinant of employability.

Self-check quiz

Take the brief quiz below to reinforce your learning and assess your understanding of the material:

Self-check quiz

Is a reference checks a formality, and calling the references your candidate suggested doesn’t usually add much value?

1. Yes, it’s true. There’s no value in reference checks.
2. No, reference checks do have value.