14 Mar Why bother with reference checks?

The recruitment process is a crucial aspect of any hospitality business, and it is vital to ensure that the right candidates are selected for the job. Reference checks play an essential role in verifying the information provided by candidates and assessing their suitability for the position. The more motivated a candidate is to land the job, the more likely they are to “put on a mask” during the interview in order to convince you that they are the perfect fit. Thorough reference checking can help you understand who is behind the mask.

A resume or CV may contain information that is not entirely accurate, and candidates may exaggerate their qualifications or experience to appear more attractive to potential employers. By conducting reference checks, you can confirm the accuracy of the information provided and ensure that candidates have the necessary skills and experience to perform the job effectively.

Reference checks also help to assess a candidate’s character and work ethic. While interviews can provide insight into a candidate’s personality, a reference check can provide a more accurate picture of their work habits and ethics. By speaking to previous employers, reference checks can provide an indication of the candidate’s reliability, honesty, and integrity. This information can help employers determine whether a candidate is a good fit for the culture and values of their business.

A thorough reference check can help identify any potential red flags. Previous employers may provide information about a candidate’s past behaviour, such as a history of absenteeism, poor timekeeping, or disciplinary issues. This information can help you identify potential problems and make informed decisions about whether a candidate is suitable.

Additional information about a candidate’s skills and experience can be discovered when reference checking. Previous employers can provide insight into a candidate’s strengths and weaknesses, which can help you make informed decisions about training and development needs. This can also help you determine the level of support a candidate may need to perform the job effectively.

Reference checks can help to protect your business from legal and reputational risks. If a candidate has a history of unethical behaviour, criminal activity, or poor performance, hiring them could expose your business to these risks. If you identify the potential risks, you can take appropriate action to mitigate them.

Learning from candidate’s previous employers about their skills, experience, character, and work ethic, can help you make informed decisions about who to hire. With thorough reference checks, you can select the right candidates for the job, minimise risks, and protect the reputation of your business.