How to Check References

There are three ways:

• in person
• by phone
• by mail

In person is the most revealing method, but it's not often the most practical. Checking by mail is the least productive, because former employers may not take the time to write a letter. So, the phone is the most common means of checking references because it's immediate, inexpensive and you can pick up on voice cues.

Questions to Ask References

• Are you willing to share information about the applicant?
• Which positions or jobs did the applicant hold with your company and how were these duties performed?
• Does the applicant work best as a member of a team or alone?
• Do you have specific examples of the applicant's high performance or achievement?
• In what instances did the applicant perform below expectations?
• How does the applicant cope with stress?
• Would you rehire this person? Why or why not?
• Would you recommend the applicant for this position?

The Legal Side of Checking References

According to studies, about 75% of employers don't check references. These employers may be opening themselves up to lawsuits, due to an emerging theory of employer liability known as negligent hiring.

Negligent hiring becomes an issue when an employer knew, or should have known, that an employee presented a foreseeable risk of harm. That's why it's vital to find out if a job applicant is suitable for the job.