Choosing the right reference-checking method—manual or automated—can make a big difference in your hiring process, impacting speed, accuracy, and cost. Dive into this guide to uncover the pros, cons, and tips for each approach, helping you make the best decision for your business needs!
4o
When you are hiring, choosing the right reference-checking method is like picking the best tool from a toolbox. Should you go old-school with manual calls, or is it time to embrace automation? Each approach comes with its own strengths and quirks. To help you make the right decision, we will break down the essential factors so you can confidently choose what works best for your business.
You would not buy a car without a test drive, right? Hiring is no different. Reference checks give you a behind-the-scenes look at your candidates' work history, reliability, and skills. They help ensure you are bringing the right person on board and avoiding costly hiring mistakes.
But how you conduct these checks can significantly impact their accuracy, timeliness, and cost-effectiveness. That is why choosing the right method is so important.
Let us dive into the basics first. There are two primary ways to conduct reference checks:
Both options have their pros and cons, and the best choice depends on your specific needs.
Manual reference checks involve reaching out to references yourself, typically by making phone calls or writing emails. This hands-on approach allows you to ask detailed questions and even pick up on subtle cues, like hesitation in a reference’s voice.
Automated reference checks use technology to gather structured feedback from references. These systems typically send out surveys to references, who fill them out at their convenience.
Pros of Automated Reference Checks
Cons of Automated Reference Checks
Your decision will depend on several key factors. Let us walk through the most important ones.
1. The Size of Your Hiring Needs
2. The Complexity of the Role
3. Your Budget
Manual checks may seem cheaper initially but consider the labor costs involved. On the other hand, automated systems require an upfront investment in technology but can save money in the long run, especially for larger operations.
4. The Importance of Speed
In fast-moving hiring processes, every second counts. Automated systems often have the edge here, as they allow references to respond at their convenience, without back-and-forth scheduling.
5. The Level of Detail You Need
If you are hiring for a leadership role, the depth and nuance of a manual check might outweigh the convenience of automation. Conversely, for roles that are more about numbers than people skills, an automated system might suffice.
Sometimes the best choice is not one or the other, but a mix of both. For example:
This hybrid approach can give you the best of both worlds.
If you decide to go manual, here are some tips to save time and avoid frustration:
If automation is your choice, keep these pointers in mind:
There is no one-size-fits-all answer. It boils down to what you value most in the hiring process: speed, detail, cost, or scalability.
Choosing the best reference-checking method is like finding the right pair of shoes. It depends on the fit for your unique needs. By weighing the pros and cons and considering factors like hiring volume, budget, and role complexity, you can make a decision that helps you hire with confidence.