Getting the Lowdown -- Have a prospective hire sign a waiver absolving ex-bosses from liability for an honest reference. -- Get the names of at least five references to increase the odds that someone will be forthcoming with information. -- Verify the facts first. Make sure basic information--such as job titles, academic degrees, and dates of employment--is correct. -- If primary references aren't cooperative, contact others such as vendors, colleagues, or former subordinates. -- Make questions to references pinpointed and specific. -- Don't rush it. Talk long enough to get a feel for both the employee and the reference. -- If all else fails, a good deal can be learned from pre-employment screening tests, job tryouts, or other alternative methods. Return to main story

Updated June 15, 1997 by bwwebmaster
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