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Results of our most recent Reference Checking Survey

Of the respondents, 55% reported that their companies had policies in place regarding providing references on former employees. While 80% of the respondents believed the reference check is an important aspect of the hiring process, many admitted to not asking all the questions necessary to obtain a complete picture of the candidate. Please click here to view the survey results.

Analysis and interpretation of our most recent Reference Checking Survey

The reference check is a vital tool in assessing the potential success of a new hire. If improperly completed, it can result in an individual being hired into a position for which they are not qualified or where there is a mismatch of skills and personality. Please click here to view the analysis and interpretation of the survey responses.

The legalities of providing a reference check on a former employee

One of the more intriguing problems confronting a manager today, is trying to understand the law with respect to providing employment references; particularly discussing negative issues about a former employee with a potential employer. They balance trying to be fair with the employer, by giving meaningful information, but at the same time having a concern over their own legal liability. Provided in this article are two of the more notable aspects of this apparent worrisome topic. Please click here to view.

Analysis and interpretation of our most recent Reference Checking Survey

The results of our most recent survey suggest the following:

· Thorough checks are not being completed prior to hiring decisions being made
· Interviewers are not taking advantage of available sources of information that could flag areas of concern
· A high percentage of candidates are falsifying their credentials
· People are not necessarily candid when contacted for a reference
· Information has become more difficult to get because referees are concerned about legal reprisals, even though they have a legal right to provide truthful information (Please refer to the article on the side bar to the left entitled what is qualified privilege.)
The reference check is a vital tool in assessing the potential success of a new hire. If improperly completed, it can result in an individual being hired into a position for which they are not qualified or where there is a mismatch of skills and personality. It is imperative that the individual completing the reference check be able to create an atmosphere over the telephone where the reference feels comfortable talking candidly and openly and that the interviewer has the experience to ask relevant (and sometimes difficult) questions. Only then can the responses be analyzed effectively.

Questions to consider prior to hiring

· Does the candidate have the necessary skills and abilities to perform effectively in the role they are being considered for?
· Do they have the required interpersonal style, temperament and disposition to engage others so that they are able to deliver?
· Can they make crucial decisions?
· Etc.

It is no secret that a company’s success or failure is in its people. Both management and staff need the skills and abilities to do the job and work together as a team. There is no better way to ensure this than a proper reference check. The employment interview tells only some of the story. It’s the reference check that contributes to the complete picture — and to the bottom line.