4 Important Things You Can Learn From Reference Checks, and the Best Way to Conduct Them.

Does your company conduct reference checks on your final candidates? If your company is questioning the value of reference checks, then read why reference checks are still important, the four things you can learn and the best way to conduct reference checks.

Yes! Reference Checks Are Important.

As the one, last final step before presenting a job offer to a candidate, checking references shouldn’t be overlooked.

References checks offer additional insights about the candidate, other than what is discussed at the interview. This is an opportunity to corroborate prior responses, verify roles,  learn how they worked with others, and understand their career goals.

4 Things You can Learn from a Reference Check:

Corroborate  Prior Responses – It’s an unfortunate truth that people exaggerate and mislead during the interview process. During a reference check, now is the time to verify the candidate’s prior responses, such as a role as project leader, accomplishments, and questions on supervision.

Verify Roles  – This seems like common sense, but at Open Systems we have found that verifying job titles, responsibilities, and dates of employment is best done with a triple-check methodology.

✓ Check the resume, confirm with the candidate
✓ Check social media profiles
✓ Check with references

How they Worked with Others – Perspective matters when considering how the candidates works with others. The candidate will tell you how they got along with others. It is in your company’s best interest to ask the candidates manager and direct reports how they interacted with the candidate.

What are their career goals – Candidates have the answer to this question practiced to perfection. But when you ask a former colleague or supervisor this question about a candidate it’s not expected and you can find out if the candidate may be a short hire, instead of a long-term investment.

The Best Way to Conduct Reference Checks

If your company is waiting until just before the final offer to conduct a reference check, you are too late. If the candidate’s social profile or references have variations from the interview process you could be back at square one. Reference checks, social profile verification, skill verification and salary alignment need to occur prior to in-person interviews to ensure you have a quality candidate.

Moving Forward

Working with Open Systems for your professional recruitment needs will streamline your recruiting process, and save you time and money by ensuring only candidates with the skills and approved salary range are being considered. Let’s talk about how Open Systems can streamline your hiring process today.

|

All Articles

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *