Definition
A reference check means contacting, with the candidate's agreement, people who worked with them (managers, colleagues, clients) to confirm what they presented and clarify specific points. It usually happens at the end of the process, before the offer or as a condition of it.
Best practices
- Get the candidate's consent and let them suggest references: what you collect is personal information.
- Ask the same questions for every candidate, focused on skills and behaviours observed at work.
- Avoid protected grounds: no questions about health, family, age or origin.
- Record the answers in the file so the decision stays traceable.
Example of a useful question: "Can you describe a time this person had to handle an unexpected priority? What did they do?"
Key takeaway
A reference confirms or nuances an assessment; it does not replace it. In Quebec, collection must comply with the private sector privacy act. General information, not legal advice.