Reference Checks: Should They Come Before the Job Offer? What Do You Think?

Dear All,

I have a question which I guess everyone would have given a thought about... I want to know, according to you, which is the best way to do a reference check? And would it be the right thing to do a reference check before making an offer? Let me know.

Regards,
Avi

Prepare a questionnaire and send it to the candidate's HR Manager and Reporting Head. This is one way. You can talk to them directly; however, most of them don't entertain. Generally, the candidate will give their direct reporting boss's mobile number. Be sure to take their board line number or direct line number. Outsourcing your reference check is also a good option. Hope this brief explanation helps.

Arun,

Yes, you can conduct a reference check before making the offer, but definitely not as an HR of the company. You can obtain the company's landline number and contact the accounts department to inquire about his exact salary, mentioning that you are from X bank and X has applied for a loan. Additionally, you may speak with the HR regarding his date of joining. In fact, sometimes you can gather more information from the front office executive, telephone operator, or receptionist about X, specifically regarding discipline and other aspects. This approach is intended to safeguard the candidate, as he could face difficulties if we decide not to hire him. It works! Give it a try :)

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But for the direct reference, you may use the landline and his reporting authority's extension rather than the mobile number. Prepare a format beforehand; generally, they would not entertain it. Be precise. If you need any format, I shall forward one to you :)