How to Run a Reference Background Check?
Reference background checks can seem like a formal hurdle in the employment process, but they’re a crucial step to ensure you’re making the right hiring decisions. Let’s dive into what they involve, who can perform them, and how you can get professional help if needed.
How to Run a Reference Check?
Conducting a reference check is more than just ticking a box; it’s about getting a well-rounded view of a candidate. Here’s how you can approach it:
- Start with the Basics: Ask your candidate to provide a list of references. Typically, these should be professional contacts who have directly worked with the candidate, such as former managers or coworkers.
- Prepare Your Questions: Think about what you need to know to confirm the candidate’s suitability. Questions can range from verifying employment facts to discussing the candidate’s skills, strengths, and work habits.
- Reach Out: Contact the provided references via phone or email. A phone call often yields more detailed responses, but email can be a good starting point for scheduling or if the referee prefers it.
- Listen and Evaluate: Pay attention not just to what is said but how it’s said. Enthusiasm and hesitation can tell you a lot. After your conversations, reflect on the insights you’ve gained to inform your hiring decision.
Who Can Do a Reference Check?
Anyone involved in the hiring process can conduct a reference check, but it typically falls to HR professionals or the hiring manager. It’s a task that requires a mix of tact, discretion, and the ability to read between the lines. Smaller companies might have the business owner or a senior team member handle it, depending on the structure of the organization.
Are There Companies That Can Run a Reference Check for You?
Yes, absolutely. If you’re pressed for time or prefer an expert touch, numerous third-party companies specialize in conducting thorough reference checks. These services can range from basic employment verification to in-depth interviews, offering a detailed report on their findings. Opting for a professional service can save time and provide a level of detail that might be hard to achieve on your own.
In conclusion, reference checks are a vital part of the recruitment process, ensuring that you bring the right people into your team. Whether you’re doing it yourself or enlisting professional help, the goal is the same: to gain insights that resumes and interviews alone can’t provide. Keep it straightforward, respectful, and thorough, and you’ll add another layer of confidence to your hiring decisions.