When checking a job applicant's employment references, try to get an objective view of his strong points and areas that need improvement. Ask probing questions about how he demonstrated those strengths and request specific examples.
Get as much information as possible on how the job candidate handles pressure, responds to criticism and manages conflicts and work relationships. Ask his previous employer to describe the particular circumstances.
Get realistic examples of how the job applicant makes decisions. Ask questions to determine if he procrastinates or takes calculated risks, as well as how he gathers facts before making decisions.
Ask how the candidate demonstrated commitment in his previous job, and how often he was willing to work overtime or more than the job description required in order to complete a task. Check to see if he was a self-starter or if detailed direction was needed.
Probe for specific examples of real on-the-job performance to support any glowing descriptions you may get from a previous employer. End the reference check with a request for an overall summary of the applicant's performance throughout his employment at the company.
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