What is an Employer Reference Check?
In contemporary workplaces, an employer or employment reference check can either affirm a candidate’s proclaimed skills and experience or unveil unforeseen disappointments.
To find out potential exaggerations and lies and identify honest, qualified candidates, including a reference check into the applicant screening process is important.
This guide takes you through the details of performing a good employer reference check, providing information on why it is important, the steps involved, and the best practices to follow.
What Exactly is an Employer Reference Check?
An employer or employment reference check is an important step in the hiring process. During this phase, a hiring manager, employer, or recruiter reaches out to the candidate’s previous workplace to gather insights into the candidate’s performance and skills.
The primary goal is to confirm the qualifications mentioned in the candidate’s CV, ensuring that they align with the specific requirements of the intended role. This thorough process provides valuable information that aids employers in making informed decisions about the candidate’s suitability for the position in question.
It goes beyond the surface to validate the candidate’s professional background, helping to create a comprehensive understanding of their capabilities and work history.
Reference Check vs Background Check
Reference checks and background checks work together when hiring, but they have different jobs. A reference check looks at a candidate’s past work through interviews, while a background check is like a fact-checking mission, confirming identity, work history, education, and more. Using both checks together strengthens the hiring process.
What Happens During a Reference Check?
In the employment reference check process, the hiring manager confirms the information provided in the candidate’s CV. This involves scrutinizing various facets of the candidate’s professional history:
1. Key Skills
Evaluating areas where the candidate excelled or claimed to excel in their previous roles.
2. Contributions
Probing into the positive contributions the candidate made during their tenure at previous workplaces.
3. Punctuality
Assessing the baseline behavior of the candidate, specifically their reliability in adhering to work schedules.
4. Attitudes
Examining the candidate’s approach to work and their relationships with colleagues.
5. Other Issues
Uncovering any additional information pertinent to the role at hand.
Choosing References
While the default choice for a reference check is often the candidate’s former manager or supervisor, there are exceptions too. For roles with supervisory responsibilities, insights from those managed by the candidate can provide an important perspective. This flexibility ensures a comprehensive evaluation tailored to the specific requirements of the position.
Tips and Best Practices for Gaining Effective References
Gaining effective references is a valuable aspect of the job search journey. Consider the following tips for an efficient reference process:
1. Advance Notification
Acknowledge the time commitment involved for referees and provide ample notice. This ensures they can fulfill their role effectively, whether in writing a letter or participating in a detailed questionnaire.
2. Continuous Communication
Keep your referees updated on your progress in the job application process. Share interview invitations promptly, allowing them time to prepare for potential inquiries.
3. Testimonials as a Supplement
In addition to traditional references, consider requesting testimonials that you can include as an addendum to your CV. These self-sourced endorsements offer insight into what your references are communicating about you.
4. Regular Reference Updates
As your career evolves, update your list of references to reflect current and relevant contacts. Ensure that those serving as references remain in the same positions, providing accurate and up-to-date insights.
5. Expressing Gratitude
Regardless of the outcome, express gratitude to your referees for their support. This courtesy not only acknowledges their efforts but also strengthens your professional relationships for potential future collaborations.
All in All
Typically, a reference check serves as the concluding step before presenting a job offer to the candidate. This phase follows processes like background checks and employment history checks.
Ensuring transparency and clear communication about the recruiting process contributes to an overall positive candidate experience. In the evolving job market, employer reference checks remain reliable for validating claims, assessing suitability, and making informed hiring decisions.
