Do Employers Contact References Before or After the Job Interview?

Employers typically contact references after the job interview process. This usually occurs once a candidate is a finalist for a position or has received a job offer contingent on reference checks. However, some employers may reach out to references earlier in the process, especially if they want to verify qualifications before conducting interviews. It is always a good idea for candidates to inform their references that they may be contacted.

Job References and Recruitment

Recruiters, those who recruit for others, will ask for ldquo;referencesrdquo; before an interview in order to recruit or sell to your references. However, it is not advisable to give up any references without an offer. Additionally, do not disclose other companies you are applying to or interviewing with. Recruiters ask for this information to get leads.

The Variability of Reference Checking

The policy varies from company to company. But it should not be a matter of concern unless there is something suspicious in your background. Companies want candidates that can be an asset. Performing background verification is to ensure the credibility of the employees. References are just a source for acquiring reliable candidates.

Best Practices for Candidates

The best practice is not to hand over references until they are at the last stage of the process, when the employer is considering you seriously for a job offer. Most employers check references after the interview and when they have decided to offer the candidate a position. Occasionally, employers check references before the interview in cases where the number of candidates is not that many and the employer feels the person is a serious candidate. This approach is not frequent but it is not rare either.

Nature of Pre-Interview Reference Checks

Where the employer checks references before the interview, the nature of the reference checking may be different than the more traditional reference checks after the interviews. They may be more basic questions, not addressing the specifics of the position and may be conducted by an HR person who has never met the candidate. They can still be fairly thorough, however, and give employers a general idea of the candidate's character and work history.

Conclusion

Job interviews can be stressful, and understanding the process of reference checks can help candidates navigate the job search more effectively. Always prepare for reference checks by keeping your references informed and ready to provide detailed and positive information. This can significantly impact your chances of securing a position.