How to Check a Job Reference Form
Sample Reference Questions for Entrepreneurs and Managers
Oct 30, 2009
Checking a job reference can be a tricky proposition, especially if the potential employee has an employer - past or present - that isn't being forthcoming with relevant information. Therefore preparation to check someone's work references starts even before contact is made. Take a peek first at the introductory data to Do A Background Check, and once ready, read more of this article to get a list of reference questions and formatting to get a proper job reference.
How To Start A Reference Check
Begin the conversation with the person being called in a neutral, non committal fashion: "This call is to perform a reference check for John Doe," rather than, "Company ABC is looking to hire John Doe and would like to verify some information."
These first reference questions should be based on the kinds of facts found on a resume or job application and avoid anything personal initially. As the reference questions move on, try to increase the amount of information shared that might be construed as more personal, without overstepping any legal boundaries.
Coping With Reference Question Resistance
There will likely come a time when a company or hiring manager won't be forthcoming with basic information required to perform a job reference check. When this happens, keep the following information in mind:
- Remain confident during the entire conversation no matter what transpires.
- Remember to start the conversation neutrally.
- Let the person providing the employee reference know that all information shared will remain confidential.
- Make a point of sharing, if the job reference process becomes stressful, that the information shared is required to determine the applicant's eligibility for a position. Unless the information can be verified, the applicant cannot be considered for the position. Again, make sure this is shared neutrally to avoid legal ramifications.
If sharing information in a logical, neutral manner does not get the information required, then ask to speak to someone higher up in the management ladder.
Free Sample Reference Form Questions
When calling to a current or former employer of a potential employee, use the following sample reference format:
- Was/is applicant XYZ employed with company ABC? Yes/No
- What was the start and end date (if applicable) of applicant XYZ?
- The applicant stated they earned $___ with company ABC. Is this correct? Yes/No
- What position did applicant XYZ hold, and what were the responsibilities of the position?
- Was the applicant able to fulfill the responsibilities of the position? Why or why not?
- Did the applicant ever receive a promotion while at company ABC? Yes/No Please describe the circumstances.
- Was the applicant punctual? Yes/No
- How was the applicant's attendance?
- What was the applicant's work ethic and performance like? Please describe.
- How did the applicant interact with coworkers, supervisors, management and customers?
- What reasons did the applicant state for leaving company ABC?
- Would company ABC rehire applicant XYZ? Yes/No
- Are there any additional comments to be made regarding applicant XYZ?
Related: Free Human Resources Forms, Free Legal Forms for Business.
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