A reference check template is a standard set of questions you ask a candidate's former manager or colleague to verify their work history, confirm strengths, and surface any concerns before you make a hire. Use the same questions for every reference so you compare answers fairly and turn a quick call into a real decision-making signal.
Use this reference check template near the end of your process, once you have a preferred candidate and their written consent. Asking every reference the same job-related questions turns an informal chat into comparable, decision-ready evidence. Pair it with your structured interview notes — scoring tools such as Pitch N Hire's Intuvos help keep that evidence consistent — to confirm strengths and catch red flags before you commit.
Candidate name: [Candidate Name]
Reference name and title: [Reference Name, Job Title]
Company and relationship: [Company] — [e.g. direct manager for 2 years]
Date of check: [Date] | Conducted by: [Your Name]
Opening: 'Thanks for taking the time. [Candidate] has applied for [Role] with us and listed you as a reference. I have a few short questions, and everything you share is treated confidentially.'
Can you confirm [Candidate]'s job title and the dates they worked with you?
What were their main responsibilities?
What was your working relationship — did they report to you?
How would you describe their overall performance?
What are their greatest strengths?
Can you share an example of work you were genuinely impressed by?
How did they compare to others in a similar role?
In which areas could they still develop?
How did they respond to feedback or setbacks?
Was there anything about their work you'd have liked to see done differently?
How do they work within a team and with stakeholders?
How do they handle pressure, deadlines or changing priorities?
What kind of environment or manager helps them do their best work?
Why did they leave, or why are they looking to leave?
Would you hire or work with them again, given the chance? Why or why not?
Is there anything I didn't ask that I should know?
Thank the reference and confirm how to reach them if you need a quick follow-up.
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