Reference Questions

I have been on a reference checking binge for two days. I don't use a form. I develop specific questions for each reference based on the position with that company and the nature of the business albeit i cover the same basic questions. I am experiencing some reference check burnout.

What are your top three or four questions you ask when referencing checking? Do you use the question format of, "Can you give me an example of a situation where John exhibited leadership that resulted in revenue generation for your company?" Or do you ask open ended questions and let the person say what they want to say?

I think i am beginning to sound like a reference robot and need some input.:)

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Permalink Reply by Amber on October 20, 2011 at 4:24pm

I have started asking "What do you remember most about John?". So far, it seems to be eliciting some good information. And I think it has also kind of taken the reference a little out of their automated response mode. If they answer with something like "John was always the one who stayed after hours to help train the new person.", then I can ask further questions if I want more detail. If they answer with something like "John always wore really wrinkled shirts." , then I try to guide them back to something more related to job performance. (Since I usually do any reference checks towrds the end of the interview/offer process, I assume John wore a pressed shirt when he interviewed!)

Good post, I can always use ideas to make the calls better - and more enjoyable! I'm looking foward to the replies to this.

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Permalink Reply by Bill Schultz on October 20, 2011 at 4:43pm

I urge the client to make the reference call a) because they should b) because i hate to.

I just start with "What can you tell me about Mary?" and go from there.

Often, I try to focus on any questionable feedback that the client expressed in our debrief.

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Permalink Reply by Sandra McCartt on October 20, 2011 at 4:55pm

That is great. Thanks Amber, i am going to use that one in about five minutes. I have been asking "Why did you hire John when she interviewed with you?" That one is getting some great candid responses.

Do you record references when you are checking?

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Permalink Reply by Sandra McCartt on October 20, 2011 at 4:59pm

@Bill i agree with you 100%. I beg clients to do the reference checking. This just happens to be one of my fav clients and the VP of HR begged me to help because she is underwater. I have her questions that are things like scope of responsibilities. and influence. I would reference check my grandmother for this lady.

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Permalink Reply by Amber on October 20, 2011 at 5:16pm

@Sandra - thanks, I'll add your question to my list!

Yes, I handwrite notes on a sheet and then put those into a form for the client. I have tried typing the notes onto the form during the call, but 1. I am not a fast enough typer 2. it distracts me for some reason.

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Permalink Reply by Amber on October 20, 2011 at 5:18pm

@ Bill - Know what you mean! I only have a few clients that have us do the reference checks. I don't always love doing them, but I do try and at least get something from each call - sometimes additional business, referrals, or industry info.

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Permalink Reply by Bill Schultz on October 20, 2011 at 5:39pm

@amber - I've had trainers who say a reference call is a marketing call but that was a little slimey to me.

I end each call with "If I can ever return the favor..." and sometimes this leads to a candidate or a job order but

that's as far as I'll go.

and yes, transcribing my hieroglyphics and cave carvings into something legible is the worst part.

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Permalink Reply by Sandra McCartt on October 20, 2011 at 5:57pm

My shorthand is totally unreadable even by myself. I used to take dictation in another life couldn't read it then so got the gist of what the boss wanted to say and created the letler. He often remarked that his writing was getting better.

I am going to tape record the next references that i do.

I agree Bill, i end my conversation by saying, "If i can ever help you please do not hesitate to call, you have been a pleasure to speak with today." A reference call is a reference call not a weasle sell in my book.

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Permalink Reply by Amber on October 20, 2011 at 6:42pm

@ Bill & Sandra - I hope if I get anything from a reference it's not because I was slimey or weasely! I'll be sure and keep myself in check. :) I would say that the references brought up the subjects themselves, or when I closed the call with the lines as you both mentioned above.

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Permalink Reply by Sandra McCartt on October 20, 2011 at 7:08pm

I like the who else should i speak with question. Adding that now Thanks John.

Amber i don't think you could be a weasely slime if you tried. I have had references ask me for more information about our firm also. That's a bonus. :)

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Permalink Reply by Bill Schultz on October 20, 2011 at 9:35pm

Amber-sorry, i did not mean to imply that you did anything slimey. yes, a reference, based on your demeanor, should say to themselves " hey this amber is really professional. i should be working with her instead of the slime bag i have now...."

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Permalink Reply by Amber on October 21, 2011 at 10:47am

The replies to this have added 4 new questions to my repretoire - thanks for a great question/topic!

@Bill & Sandra - I wasn't offended, and actually there are sometimes things done a certain way, or maybe things you learn to do at some point, that don't seem questionable (or ineffective) until there is someone to point out a different perspective!