What Questions Do Employers Ask References?

On March 27, 2022

What questions can an employer ask a reference?

Here are some of the questions that may be asked during a reference check:

  • When did (name) work for your company? Could you confirm starting and ending employment dates?
  • What was her/his position?
  • Could I briefly review (name's) resume?
  • Why did (name) leave the company?
  • What was her/his starting and ending salary?

    • What is asked in a reference check?

    Essential questions for basic written references include:

  • Dates of employment.
  • Job title and main responsibilities.
  • Attendance record and number of days sick leave taken.
  • If they were reliable, honest, hardworking etc.
  • Any disciplinary actions taken against them.
  • If there are any reasons why they should not be employed.

    • What can you not ask in a reference check?

    Discrimination in Reference Checking

  • Race.
  • Height & Weight.
  • Financial Information.
  • Unemployed Status.
  • Background Checks.
  • Religious Affiliation Or Beliefs.
  • Citizenship.
  • Marital Status, Number Of Children.

    • Related Question What questions do employers ask references?

    What can you disclose in a reference?

    You can legally state facts in response to a reference request. These facts may include whether your ex-employee failed a company drug test, the results of which were officially documented. In this case, you can legally state that your employee was fired or let go due to testing positive on a company drug test.

    How long after interview are references checked?

    Most background and reference checks take about 3-5 days to complete. I'd say a follow up at 7 days sounds about right. They may have been interviewing other candidates as well, and are waiting until all of that is done to proceed.

    What is the next step after checking references?

    If your experience goes well and you are selected as a potential candidate for the job, the next step is to offer you the job. Typically you only get a job offer after reference check, they need to confirm the experience and references you provided in you resume.

    Can employer give bad reference?

    It is commonly assumed that a previous employer must give a reference and is legally prohibited from giving a bad one. Your employer can give you a bad or unfavourable reference, but only if they genuinely believe it to be true and accurate and have reasonable grounds for that belief.

    Can a previous employer say you were fired?

    A former employer can't reveal information about a termination in an attempt to prevent you from getting another job. This is known as blacklisting, and most states have anti-blacklisting laws that specifically prohibit it.

    How long does it take for references to be called?

    Once the reference check is finished, it usually takes 2–3 days; however, if the recruiter is busy with other quick hires, it may take a little longer. Wait 5 working days before contacting the prospective employer; do not resign until you receive the offer letter in your inbox.