When it comes to hiring new employees, conducting reference checks is an essential part of the process. Reference checks allow you to get a better understanding of a candidate’s work experience, skill set, and overall performance. While there are many ways to conduct reference checks, telephone reference checks remain one of the most popular methods.
Conducting effective telephone reference checks is an essential part of the hiring process. It helps employers to verify the information provided by the candidate, assess their skills and abilities, and gain insights into their work experience and behavior. To conduct an effective telephone reference check, it is crucial to prepare a list of questions that are relevant to the job position and the candidate’s experience. In this article, we will discuss how to conduct effective telephone reference checks to help you make informed hiring decisions.
Preparing for the Telephone Reference Check
Before conducting a telephone reference check, it is essential to prepare a list of questions that will help you gain the information you need. These questions should be designed to gather insights into the candidate’s skills, work style, strengths, and weaknesses. Consider asking questions such as:
- Can you describe the candidate’s work performance and overall work style?
- How did the candidate handle challenging situations?
- Can you provide an example of a project the candidate completed successfully?
- Would you rehire the candidate if given the opportunity?
It is also essential to let the reference know the purpose of the call, the role you are hiring for, and the candidate’s job responsibilities. This will help the reference provide more detailed and relevant information about the candidate’s work experience.
Conducting the Telephone Reference Check
When conducting the telephone reference check, it is important to establish rapport with the reference and build a connection. Start by introducing yourself, explaining your role in the company, and thanking the reference for their time. Next, ask the questions on your list and listen carefully to the responses. Take notes and ask follow-up questions as needed to gather more information.
It is also important to ask open-ended questions that require the reference to provide detailed answers. For example, instead of asking, “Did the candidate meet their sales targets?” ask, “Can you describe how the candidate performed in achieving their sales targets?”
During the call, be sure to maintain a professional and respectful tone, and avoid any biased or discriminatory questions. Stick to questions that are relevant to the candidate’s job responsibilities and skills.
After the Telephone Reference Check
Once you have completed the telephone reference check, take the time to review your notes and reflect on the information you have gathered. Consider how the candidate’s skills and work experience align with the job responsibilities, and whether there are any areas of concern that need further investigation.
If the reference check has provided positive feedback, you may want to move forward with the hiring process. However, if there are any red flags or concerns, it may be necessary to conduct additional interviews or investigations before making a final decision.
Conclusion
Conducting effective telephone reference checks is an essential part of the hiring process. By preparing a list of relevant questions, building rapport with the reference, and asking open-ended questions, you can gather the information you need to make informed hiring decisions. Remember to maintain a professional and respectful tone, and avoid any biased or discriminatory questions. With these tips, you can conduct effective telephone reference checks that help you find the best candidates for your organization.