What to ask in a reference check?

Once a job candidate has given you the appropriate references, you can reach out to those individuals. The key to questioning references is avoiding "yes" or "no" questions. You want these references to expound upon their detailed knowledge of the candidate and their experiences with them.

Here are some appropriate questions for them in the reference check:

• What was your specific relationship to ______? Please tell me about how you worked with one another.

  This is a straightforward question that has a few advantages. It starts the conversation with the reference in the right context. It clarifies or validates the candidate's relationship to this reference. And it lets you know the dynamic of the professional relationship.

• This is the role (summary of job description) that _____ is up for. Can you tell me what skills they have that make them qualified and fit for this position? Also, have you witnessed their work in a similar role?

  Detailing the job description to the reference is a good idea. It lets them cross-check their experiences with the job candidate, thereby increasing the possibility of you gaining significant insights into the candidate's work history and how that makes them a good fit for the role.

  These questions should be asked at the start or near the beginning of your call.

• Please tell me about one of ______ achievements from the time you spent working with them.

  This question is great because it enables the reference to point to a specific anecdote about the job candidate.

  Stories from references about accomplishments and work history are a great way to get detailed information instead of just finding out that this professional vouches for their skills. You might even learn something that the candidate has not told you themselves.

• What are_____ top strengths in your opinion?

  This question is meant for you to gain information on what the candidate is good at. You can also modify the question to be more specific to the job description.

  For instance, if the candidate is up for a manager-level role, you can ask the reference to highlight their top managerial or leadership strengths. You can also pinpoint other areas.

• Can you tell me what areas_____ needs growth in?

  This is a good and polite way to ask the reference about the job candidate's weaknesses. Sometimes using the term "weaknesses" or "shortcomings" can make the reference tense up and not want to speak negatively about the candidate.

  Using the framing of growth puts a positive spin on the question and can be viewed as more constructive.