Intro:
Before you begin
Step 1:
Assess your needs
Step 2:
Write a job description
Step 3:
Advertise the position
Step 4:
Review the applications
Step 5:
Develop interview questions
Step 6:
Interview candidates
Step 7:
Narrow your choices
Step 8:
Check references
Step 9:
Make your offer

2torial #0411 - Step 8:
Learn2 Hire Employees (Continued)

Check references

It's not a perfect world--there's always a chance a candidate gave false or misleading information on his or her application or resume. Even if the applicant provided letters of recommendation, follow-up phone calls to the people who wrote them are a good idea. If you call up former employers, tell them who you are, that you've been given permission to contact them by the candidate, and have a short list of questions prepared:

• What was the candidate's job and responsibilities?

• What were any special projects that he or she completed?

• How was his or her overall performance?

• How did he or she get along with coworkers?

• Why did the candidate leave the workplace?

You should also check the person's school record, especially if he or she has a limited work background. If appropriate, talk to the candidate's teachers about study and work habits. If you're wondering about degree credentials, you can call the school's office of the registrar, or alumni affairs.