When managers make a hiring mistake, they often wonder where in the process they went wrong. Was it the phone screen, the interview questions, the skills tests, or something else entirely?
While there’s no set answer for every hiring mistake, one simple solution for avoiding them in the future is to conduct effective reference checks. Unfortunately, this can be easier said than done.
To ensure you leverage the full power of effective reference checking, here are 6 mistakes to avoid:
Mistake #1: Not Checking References.
As one of Dade County’s top staffing firms, Future Force knows that not checking references is a risky move, especially in today’s day and age. Even if you aren’t able to gain insight into who a candidate really is, the very least you’ll be able to do is verify past employment and job titles. If a job candidate is lying about the basic fundamentals, then it’s only natural to wonder what else they’re not being honest about.
Mistake #2: Not Asking for References From Managers.
If a candidate gives you references and they’re all from peers and co-workers, then be sure to ask for at least two references from managers, as well. If they’re unable or unwilling to offer you any past managers as references, then that’s a big red flag.
Mistake #3: Calling a Cell Phone.
It’s not unheard of to have a candidate give you a fake reference, where it’s actually a friend posing as a former boss or manager. So when checking references, be sure to call the main switchboard at the company and ask to be transferred to the candidate’s reference, instead of just calling the direct number or cell phone number you were given.
Mistake #4: Not Asking Good Questions.
Prepare a list of meaningful questions ahead of time and really think about the kind of information you’re trying to obtain. For instance, instead of asking a reference: “Does Mary have any major areas of weakness?,” ask “What are the top two areas Mary can improve upon in her work?”
Mistake #5: Not Checking References Consistently.
Many employers check references for some candidates and not for others. But if you want to avoid hiring mistakes, it’s important to check references for all candidates. That said, you may have a more rigorous reference checking process for senior positions vs. entry level ones…but you should always check references.
Mistake #6: Offering a Job Before Checking References.
Don’t offer a job and make it contingent upon a reference check. Instead, whittle your candidate list down to the top three candidates and then check references for all three. You will likely unearth some information that will prove valuable in your decision making process. So why would you make a hiring decision before this important step?
Need More Help Checking References – or Hiring Experienced Workers?
If you do, let Future Force know. As one of Dade County’s top staffing firms, we can help you source and screen qualified candidates, as well as verify references to ensure you hire right! Contact Future Force today to learn more about how we can help you.