Small Business Resources, Business Advice and Forms from AllBusiness.com

What Is the Correct Way to Conduct a Reference Check?

* From  Date: Tuesday, February 13 2007

Checking applicants´ references is one of the most important steps in the hiring process.   Ask specific questions based on what you learned about the applicant during the interview.

For example:

  • How did the employee contribute to projects mentioned in the interview? Pay attention to neutral or negative comments from references. Lukewarm comments or half-hearted praise speak volumes.
  • Would the employer hire the person back? If they hesitate, move on to the next applicant.

Hiring: Look for Fast-Learners and Enthusiasm
Hattie Bryant of Small Business School interviews Wanda Brice of Computer Directions, a staffing agency based in Dallas, Texas.