Reference checks are very important and when comparing final candidates, they can make the difference in selection. It is so because even after a couple of meetings it is not possible for the hiring authority to exactly know the candidate, his potential, his behavior and his attitude. So in order to make sure that they hire the right person for the job, reference check is important.
Choose your references wisely, because a less than positive reference is a very strong indication they should not proceed with the applicant. It is through references only the recruiters are able to reveal more information regarding the work ethic and habits or what they can expect by hiring a candidate.
Even if the recruiter does not contact the references you provide you must still provide references that, are the best i.e. they must not give a mediocre review, this could affect the chances of getting selected. While providing references you must note that you provide only the necessary list of references for instances it is believed that “3” references are best to provide.
A list while is lesser than 3 gives an indication that you couldn’t find enough people to speak about you and a number more than 3 raises a red flag on why so many?
Consider the following while providing references.
Make sure your references are prepared well in advance. It may not be their fault if they are not up-to-date with your achievements and current projects take time to provide your references with a copy of your latest resume.
Impression from a reference is ever lasting and if a person is listed as a reference and says “I have no comments” it raises suspicion. If a reference never returns the employer’s call it raises another red flag. Did you provide the correct contact information or the reference never wanted to be bothered?
Incorrect phone numbers not only waste the time but also makes your credibility low in the eyes of the hiring authority. Even if with a correct number, if a reference calls and does not respond quickly it can hurt you.
Make sure your references can provide information related to your start and end date of employment, the reasons you left, your strengths and weaknesses, responsibilities and willingness to hire, salary and bonuses, your work ethic, communication skills and their willingness to rehire.
Follow up with references.
Follow up with your references after they have talked to the reference checker to see how the conversation went. Let your references know your job search is going on especially when you land a new position. It is also advisable to send a thank you note for their help in the process. Remember they may be the difference maker in you getting the position.
Make sure that you provide references that become only your assets & not liability, be proactive and prepared. Reference checks are critical and can help you in getting hired so be double sure to give references that matter and make sure to avoid references with negative and neutral or no comments’ people.