Verify PassportCandidate Support

Article

Quick guide to Reference Checks

Close up image of a laptop with people pointing at the screen

While the pre-background checking process has changed massively in recent years, with a wealth of new checks contributing to further insights into candidates, reference checking was one of the earliest background checks, and almost all new employers look to past managers for insights into how candidates perform at work, and for confirmation of skills and professional achievements.

But traditional reference checking is a slow and cumbersome process, with candidates providing a list of references on their CV or application form, and HR departments contacting referees directly either by post, email, or phone. Referees then had to find the time to answer the reference request, which then must be processed by the new employer.

automated checking of employment references
Automated checking of employment references

This whole procedure could add weeks to the hiring timeline, affecting candidate engagement and in some cases, leading to employers bypassing reference checking altogether. Up to 20% of employers admit that they don’t always check references, but this is a dangerous tactic. A recent report found that 30% of people have lied on their resume, and the most common lie relates to work experience.

Traditional reference checking involved confirming dates and responsibilities, a rather binary check which didn’t add much to the understanding of the candidate or provide additional information which could indicate candidates’ strengths or areas to grow.

quick reference check
Quick reference check

But digital technology allows prospective employers to delve much deeper into a candidate’s skills, and foster a better understanding of their communication levels, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities, as well as being faster and more convenient for the referee.

The latest reference checks can be accessed from any mobile device, providing a much more convenient experience for the referee, and resulting in a higher response rate (up to 85%). Digital reference checks can also be carried out in an average turnaround time of 48 hours.

employment reference checks
Employment reference checks

As well as speed and convenience, the latest checks also result in richer data which can be proven, tracked, and protected via blockchain.

The structured reference format which is characteristic of digital reference checks creates a more consistent reference for easier comparison between candidates and can be tailored to each individual role or repeated across the board. Referees often feel more comfortable being honest in digital references, knowing that their responses are completely confidential, resulting in deeper insights which can be used to not only make better hiring decisions, but also to tailor onboarding and training for new staff.

background check references
Background check references

Our digital reference checking can be fully integrated into your applicant tracking system (ATS), and you can include references in candidates Veremark Career Passports, to use and compare data over time.

online reference check
Online reference check

Background check companies

Better Candidates. Faster Hiring.

Don’t let background screening slow you down. Screen fast and land the best candidates today.
Book a meeting with our sales team to learn more. Or get started for free by hitting the button below.

Related Insights

Regular talent acquisition and HR tech news in your inbox
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

What type of background checking service are you looking for?