Reference Check

A reference check is an employer's conversation or questionnaire with people who can speak about a candidate's work, reliability, conduct, or qualifications. It often occurs late in the hiring process, but timing varies.

Ask permission before sharing someone's contact details; explain the role, provide your current resume, and remind the person of projects or responsibilities relevant to the position. Do not script their answers or list someone who cannot discuss your work; employers may ask about dates, role, responsibilities, strengths, working relationships, or eligibility for rehire. What a reference can disclose depends on company policy and local law; a reference check differs from a background check; ask permission before sharing someone’s details, confirm how they prefer to be contacted, and brief them on the role without scripting or pressuring their response.

For example, a former manager may confirm a candidate’s role and discuss how the candidate handled deadlines and collaboration.