Running reference checks

Three references, four statuses each, free-text notes.

3 min readUpdated May 10, 2026

Why this matters

References are where surprises hide. A 30-minute phone reference catches what a resume cannot.

Setting up references

  1. Open the candidate detail panel. Find the References section.

  2. If it is empty, click 'Initialize 3 reference slots'.

  3. Each slot starts at 'Pending'. Click 'Mark contacted' once you have reached out, 'Mark scheduled' once a call is booked, 'Mark complete' once you have done the call.

  4. Use the notes textarea to capture impressions: 'Spoke with Reference 2 Tuesday; strong endorsement on punctuality, slight hesitation on initiative.' Notes auto-save when you click outside the box.

What to ask references

Ask for examples, not generalities. 'Tell me about a hard week she had with you and how she handled it.' 'What is something you wish she did differently?' 'Would you re-hire?' Listen for specifics; the answers reveal more than what is said.

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