Benefits of Using an Online Reference Checking Platform
Before an offer is made to a final candidate, they must have a reference check performed. This ensures that the company is taking the necessary steps to ensure that the candidate is qualified. Although it's usually only the top candidate's references that are checked, you can also check the references of other candidates to find a better fit.
According to Userlane, "User onboarding should always aim to lessen your users’ time to value as much as possible." One of the best user onboarding practices is utilizing a reference checking platform.
Why Use Reference Checking
Aside from interviews, reference checks are a vital part of ensuring that the candidates are qualified. The reference checks can help the hiring manager thoroughly consider each candidate's past performance.
- Verify the provided information given by a candidate.
- Thoroughly examine a candidate's background and skills.
- Help rank each candidate before making a final selection.
- Protect an organization from negligent hiring practices.
Obtaining References
Before a candidate is considered for a job, they should provide the hiring manager with at least three professional references. These should include their name, phone number, email address and a description of their working relationship. Before offering employment, at least two reference checks should be completed.
Acceptable References
Most references should be current or former managers or supervisors who are knowledgeable about the candidate's work history. For people with limited work experience, these references should be from teachers, former professors and volunteers.
In most cases, a candidate's personal friends or family members should also be included in the reference list. However, this should be considered a non-work reference. When a non-work reference is used, the reference checker should document the reason why the other references are not available.
Benefits of Using Online Reference Checking Software
Most HR professionals agree that manual reference checking can be time-consuming and can negatively affect the recruitment process. Aside from the phone tag, other factors such as the time it takes to reach someone and the quality of the reference can also be factors that prevent a successful hire.
1. Secure Top Talent Fast
According to a report by online reference checking platforms, it can take around 12 hours for a potential hire to receive a response from their references. With online reference checking software, you can quickly identify and hire the ideal candidate in a competitive market. It can also free up your HR resources by allowing them to focus on other strategic tasks.
2. Customise Hiring Questions
With reference checking software, you can customize the questions that you ask to get the most accurate information from the candidates. This eliminates the need for the referee to tell you that they only have minutes to spare.
3. Increase the Quality of Your References
Instead of chasing someone on the fly, use an online reference checking platform to find out about their skills and experience. Getting the referee's attention is very important to get the most accurate and complete information. This will allow you to make the best hiring decision. Additionally, tapping into a professional alumni network can provide an even richer source of insights from individuals who have worked closely with the candidate in a professional context.
4. All of Your Information Stored in One Place
With online reference checking software, you can easily store and access all of the details related to the candidate's references. It eliminates the need for paper notes and phone calls, and all the answers are stored in one place.
Using a reference checking platform is a must for organizations. It will help save time and money with the onboarding processes.
