When you're interviewing for a new job, the process of reference checking often feels shrouded in mystery: People are talking about you, but you don't know exactly what they're saying or what impact ...

When you collect references on job applications, do you actually check the applicant’s references? Believe it or not, many employers don’t even use the references that they collect. And, if they do, ...

In the wake of high-profile news about employee bad behavior, including the #MeToo movement and workplace sexual harassment, recruiters and hiring managers are instituting or adding more rigor to ...

When you think you’ve found the ideal candidate, it’s time to focus on reference and background checks. All too often reference checks are treated as an afterthought or a mere formality. The reality ...

Federal agencies should standardize the process for checking the references of potential hires and should train managers how to conduct effective checks, the Merit Systems Protection Board recommended ...

When assessing a potential new hire, have you ever had to ask yourself, "How wasn't this flagged during the reference check?" If so, you could be missing key steps when checking the candidate’s ...

Every part of the interview process can feel tenuous. For example: Here are a few thoughts I’ve had in the past, which I’m willing to bet have crossed your mind at some point, too. If I wear the wrong ...

Ask hiring managers if they enjoy conducting candidate reference checks and you are likely to see a lot of eye rolling. But, in a time when candidates cannot be accepted at face-value alone, the need ...

Reference checking is a personnel selection procedure that is widely used across the world. In reference checking, potential employers request information from informants who have previously worked ...

You are ready to make an employment offer to the candidate you believe is perfect for the marketing position you have been struggling to fill. Before you make the offer, someone says, “Shouldn’t we ...

Reference checks should be initiated for all final candidates prior to recommending a candidate for the position. Obtain several professional references for each candidate under serious consideration.

Reference questions are a tremendously powerful tool that helps employers understand whether they’re bringing aboard the best candidate for the role. Reference checks are also one of the best ways for ...