Havre Job Service Employers'
Committee Employer Resource Guide
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Havre Job Service Employers'
Committee Employer Resource Guide
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Why
should I spend my time checking job references?
Because the best predictor of success on the job is past performance. ·
Aren’t
most employers reluctant to give references? They shouldn’t be as long as they provide relevant,
factual information. Giving and getting job references is a legitimate business
activity in which both parties have an interest and/or liability. Even verifying
the dates of employment and the job duties gives you some credible information.
Asking appropriate, non-threatening questions with gentle persistence can also
go far in obtaining more information. And should a previous employer fail to
warn you about critical, safety-sensitive situations – that employer may have
liability if you hire a person who repeats a similar activity at your business.
Document that you asked questions even if the employer won’t answer. ·
Some
applicants just look suspicious. Is it okay to check references on just those
individuals?
Be consistent and fair in the treatment of all applicants to avoid
discrimination claims. If you check references on any applicants, check
references on all applicants. ·
Is
it okay to check references without telling an applicant that you are?
Some applicants may not even apply if you let them know through job
announcements or advertising that you will be checking references. You should
get permission from applicants before contacting previous or current employers
by asking for a written release on your job application. ·
Should
I ask for personal references? Asking for personal references may be suspect for
discrimination as applicants often list religious contacts. Besides, savvy
applicants only list personal references who will give positive responses and
personal references will probably not have relevant job performance information. ·
When
other employers call me for references, I’m not sure with whom I’m talking
or what to
say. Good point! You can ask the person calling what the questions will
be and tell the person you will pull the personnel file and call back. This
gives you time to prepare responses and allows you to verify who is calling
through a call-back procedure. ·
Which
questions should I answer?
Answer only those questions that are objective and relevant. You have no
obligation to answer improper questions. Don’t volunteer information. Ask why
the person needs certain information if you don’t know. Answer questions
evenly and unemotionally. Ask for more specifics if you don’t understand a
question.
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