Reference checking is an important step in the hiring process. Organizations that conduct reference checks should tailor questions to the job being filled for and ask open-ended questions. Supervisors of the applicant are the best sources for information on the candidate because of their past daily interaction. Human Resources will only give you information on the date of hire, date of termination and if the applicant is rehireable.
Common questions asked of references include:
- What were the individual’s job responsibilities and salary?
- Was the individual successful in his or her role at your organization? Why or why not?
- What was it like to supervise the person?
- Was the person a valuable member of the team? Why or why not?
- What unique skills did the individual bring to your organization?
- What were his or her strengths?
- What were his or her weaknesses or areas that needed improvement?
- Was the person ever disciplined, and what were the circumstances?
- Do you think the individual is suitable for the job being applied for?
- Why did the person leave your organization?
- Would you rehire the person? Why or why not?