Candidate testing and reference checks are key steps in establishing experience and qualifications for jobs.
Candidate testing
While not all positions require candidate testing, it can allow you to determine the experience and qualifications of job applicants in relation to the responsibilities of the role for which you're recruiting.
Checking references
Checking references is an important part of the hiring process – it's a source of information you can use to confirm what you learned about the candidate during the interview process.
Questions to ask
Use the same questioning techniques that you used in the interview and cover the same general topics. Verify what the candidate said in terms of their title, length of service, responsibilities and accomplishments.
You can ask for a “yes” or “no” answer to the question of whether or not the previous employer would rehire. If the response is “no”, probe for reasons. You may need to cross check with other people on the search committee to avoid the possibility of personal bias.
If something arises in the course of a reference check that you would like to consult with UBC's human resources team on, we encourage you to call you human resources advisor prior to speaking with the candidate, or before making an offer.