Checking Personal References

Most employers don't check personal references, even when they ask for them. There is a common perception that personal references are usually friends of the applicant, and that they will not convey any negative information, in the event that it exists, because they are friends.

If you do ask for and check personal references, keep these pointers in mind:

    * Consider it a red flag if the applicant has lived in the area for a considerable period of time but cannot list any local references.
    * Like employment references, personal references are more likely to say things on the phone than they are to put them in writing. So call rather than write, if possible.
    * Have an information release signed by the applicant and ready in case the reference requests it.
    * Ask only job-related questions. Don't ask irrelevant questions that could be the basis of a discrimination claim, and don't ask questions that could support an invasion of privacy claim.

Former employers are in the best position to tell you about an applicant's work history. Make sure the information you get agrees with what the applicant gave you. Employers' references can give you some or all of the following information:

    * employment dates
    * job titles
    * rates of pay
    * nature of the tasks performed
    * work habits — including conscientiousness, sense of responsibility, and ability to work with others
    * whether they would hire the individual again, knowing what they know about him or her

Sometimes, the employer won't tell you anything more than "name, rank, and serial number" information for fear that the employee may sue them. If you run into that, remind the employer that most states consider the information "qualifiedly privileged." That means that the information is protected, and the employer who shares it is protected unless the information is given:

    * with known falsity
    * in bad faith
    * with reckless disregard for the truth

Sometimes you can get more information from coworkers or supervisors, but often they too are instructed not to discuss why the employee left or if the employee would be rehired. A number of states require former employers to provide a job reference letter or some information about people who worked for them.

No matter what, document whatever information you do get and note who gave it to you. Also note the information they would not give you.

You can check employment background check or criminal background checks for more information