How Do You Conduct Phone Reference Checks and Is There a Standard Form to Use?

Hi,

Kindly let me know about reference checks. How to conduct them over the phone and if there is any specific form for reference checks.

Regards,
Nimisha

Dear Nimisha,

Please find the attached reference check form which may be useful for you.

Regards,
Dev

Hi nimisha,
For reference check you have check following about candidate
Hard Working & Responsible
Adhered to Office Policies
Well Groomed
Flexibility
Any past record that you want to share positive or negative for which the candidate may have been commended or warned?
Were assigned tasks carried out well
Team Player
Would you take the candidate back if they re-applied? If no, why?
How did the candidate treat peers, subordinates
Any known addictions – alcohol/drugs etc.
Honest and Integrity

Hi Naveen,

Thank you for your feedback. I will keep all those aspects in mind while designing the form.

Regards,
Naveen

Hi,

One important thing to consider while conducting reference checks is to not perform the check using a referee provided by the candidate themselves. It is highly likely that candidates will always offer references of individuals they have a good relationship with. Instead, always obtain the names and contact details of the employees' managers during the interview and conduct the reference check using these contacts rather than relying on the candidate's suggestions.

High-performing employees, or A players, typically have no issue with having their references checked by their immediate supervisor. It is usually only employees who have concerns or something to hide who dislike this approach.

In our company, we typically conduct reference checks using board numbers rather than cell phone numbers. When using cell numbers, it can be challenging to verify the identity of the person you are speaking to.

I hope this information is helpful.

Best regards,
Sonia

Thank you, Sonia. I'll definitely keep those things in mind while conducting reference checks. Could you please let me know the ideal timing for performing these checks?

Thank you for your attention to this matter.