It is essential to check references on all candidates who are serious contenders for a position. The best predictor of future success is past performance. Check a minimum of three supervisory references for each candidate, including current supervisor.

Make reference calls as early as possible, without jeopardizing the candidate's current employment.

• Request the candidate provide you a list of at least three professional references. (At minimum, one reference should be a former/current supervisor.)
• Schedule a mutually convenient time for the phone call.
• Prepare specific questions. Use the Telephone Reference Check as a guideline.
• Clarify the reference's working relationship with the candidate and his/her role in the organization.
• Look for a balanced assessment (positives and negatives) of the candidate.
• Listen carefully. Sometimes you can obtain certain information without asking.
• Take notes.