The Art of Reference Checks: Getting Real Signal from References

# The Art of Reference Checks: Getting Real Signal from References

Most reference checks are useless. The candidate provides references who say nice things, and you learn nothing. Here's how to actually get signal.

Why References Matter

Done well, references can: - Validate (or contradict) interview signals - Surface red flags you missed - Provide context on strengths and weaknesses - Give you a preview of how to manage them

Getting Beyond Candidate-Provided References

### Back-Channel References The most valuable references are ones the candidate didn't provide: - LinkedIn connections in common - Former colleagues you know - Industry contacts who worked with them

### Getting Permission "We do thorough reference checks, including people you might not list. Is there anyone we should definitely talk to—or avoid?"

Asking Better Questions

### Standard Questions (Low Signal) - "Would you hire them again?" (Always yes) - "What are their strengths?" (Rehearsed) - "Any concerns?" (Always no)

### Better Questions (High Signal) - "What would I need to provide for them to be successful here?" - "What type of manager do they work best with?" - "If you could change one thing about how they work, what would it be?" - "Compared to others in similar roles, where would you rank them?" - "What should I know that I haven't asked about?"

Reading Between the Lines

### What They Say vs. What They Mean - "They're very detail-oriented" = might struggle with ambiguity - "They have high standards" = might be difficult to work with - "They're passionate" = might steamroll others - Hesitation before answering = concern they're not saying

### Red Flags - Can't provide references from recent roles - References are vague or lukewarm - Contradictions between reference feedback - Pattern of short tenures without explanation

The Process

### When to Check After you're seriously interested but before you make an offer.

### How Many Minimum 3, ideally including: - Direct manager - Peer - Direct report (if applicable)

### Who Should Call The hiring manager, not a recruiter. You'll ask better questions and read nuance better.

The Bottom Line

Reference checks are your last opportunity to validate before making an expensive decision. Don't waste them on softballs. Ask hard questions, listen carefully, and trust your instincts when something feels off.