Verbal Reference Checking Service
Verbal Reference Checks - Absolutely vital!
We all know that we should do reference checks. Most of us have a fair idea why we do them and some of the key areas that are important to cover. However the candidate looks fantastic and you know you could lose them if you don't move fast. So guess what? You break all the rules and you go ahead and make the offer. Ooops!
Why is reference checking a step we should never overlook?
Talk is cheap. It is so easy to make a claim. Even those who would otherwise deem themselves honest see no harm in embellishing, omitting or tweaking information. True, a bit of tweaking can be relatively harmless but when it is not, there can be a price to pay. Verbal reference checking with immediate past employers done professionally and in depth are critical to ensure that you know what you are really getting.
Well executed verbal reference checks should:
- Verify dates, duties, experience
- Substantiate strengths, weaknesses, abilities
- Identify developmental issues
- Indicate preferred management and subordinate styles
- Give an insight into candidate attitudes and personality style
- Highlight attendance, timekeeping, personal or relationship issues and any history of employment disputes
- Confirm honesty, integrity
How both parties benefit from thorough reference checks
- Reduce the chance of surprises and give yourself a greater degree of confidence in your new recruit
- Gain an insight into your new employee's work style and key drivers
- Confirm the potential value of your chosen candidate
- Clarify any shortcomings or developmental issues which may require some support or training
- Reduce the risk of making an expensive or simply troublesome mistake
- As a result of your clearer understanding of your new recruit, you have the opportunity of setting in place an employment relationship which will get off to a flying start and will benefit both your organisation and your employee in the long run
Before you start: A verbal reference checklist
- Permission: Ensure you have the candidate's permission to speak with the referee and be ready to prove it. Savvy referees should be asking to sight your permission for them to speak with you
- Check out the referee. Make sure you are speaking to the right person and that they are in a position to make a judgement about the candidate's performance.
- Beware of undertaking reference checks using mobile numbers without first verifying the bona fides of the referee.
- Clarify the relationship between the candidate and the referee. Are they Employer, friend or collegue?
- Ensure there are no barriers preventing the referee from commenting honestly and openly. Are they a party to a confidential agreement?
- Always do more than one reference. Remember, you are relying on the opinion of a single individual whenever you undertake a verbal reference. Collaborate your findings with a second employer.
The candidate in question may be seen as a great guy, a wonderful personality in a social setting, yet may prove to be a poor employment choice. Verbal reference checks are absolutely essential to a successful recruitment outcome.
Peace of mind
Having now completed several verbal references, you have a candidate whose background and work history has been verified to your satisfaction. You can choose to employ, seek further verification if doubt has crept in, or you may decide that it is not appropriate to make an offer to the individual. Either way, you can feel considerably more confident that you are making an informed decision. The effort of carrying out a number of comprehensive verbal reference checks is a small price to pay for the peace of mind they bring.
We can conduct indepth and professionally conducted verbal reference checks tailored to your individual needs.
You can discuss obligation free your requirements with Toni on 09 9667473 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..