How to get a reference when no one will tell you anything

Just as I sat down to write this blog post, I got a question from a new member asking how to get references in today's world when no one will tell you anything?

This is not a new problem, but it has been getting worse since everyone is afraid of being sued and the lawyers keep saying: "Just tell them date hired and date terminated."

A couple of years ago, we here at Humetrics developed a tool call a Reference Verification form and, as a member, you can download it free. Click Here.

The way the form works is it asks applicants to tell you how their previous supervisor will rank them in areas like dependability, honesty, teamwork and overall job performance, etc. Once the applicant has filled out the form, you can use it to gain a great deal of insight in the interviewing process by asking the applicant why they feel their present or past manager would rank them that way and what they could do to improve.

The form also gives you the applicant's signed permission to check references and releases anyone who provides information free from any liability. You can now tell the other employer that you have this release and will be glad to fax it to them if they wish. When you tell them: "I would just like to confirm what the applicant told me on the form about how they believe you would rate their performance," we find that better than 75% of those asked will confirm what they won't tell you if you just ask.