Reference Checking Guidelines

• Check at least 3 references (current supervisor/previous employers).
• Contact reference(s) by phone.
• When contacting the reference, identify yourself, where you work, your position,
  the nature of your call and the identity of the candidate.
• Inquire if this is a convenient time for them to respond to reference questions.
• Assure the reference that all discussions will be held in strict confidence.
• Outline the requirements and duties of the position for which the candidate is being
  considered so that the reference can organize their responses.
• Be consistent, ask the same questions of each reference.
• Disregard any information that is not job related.
• If you receive a negative reference, evaluate the information carefully: is it job-related?
• Ask the reference if you may call back if you have additional questions.
• Thank the reference for their time and cooperation.

Sample Reference Check Questions

• Is reference in a position to evaluate candidate's performance?
• What are the dates of employment?
• What position(s) have been held?
• What are the requirements, duties and skills of this position?
• How would you rate the candidate's performance (excellent/satisfactory/poor)
  and why?
• What are the candidate's strengths? Weaknesses?
• How does this candidate interact with peers?
• Can you provide examples of how this candidate is self-motivated and/or
  takes initiative?
• Can you provide an example of how the candidate used time effectively?
  Were assignments completed on time?
• Can you describe the candidate's oral and written communication style?
• Would you select this candidate to be part of a team to assist with critical projects?
  Why/Why not?
• How does this candidate handle pressure/stress?
• How would you rate this candidate's computer/technical skills?
• Can you please comment on any additional job-related information of which we
  should be aware?
• If applicable, why did the candidate leave?
• If you were in a position to hire the candidate for a similar position would you?
  Why/why not?