Hiring • 6 MIN READ
25 Reference Check Questions That Reveal the Truth About Candidates
MAY 26, 2026
Done well, reference checks are one of the most valuable sources of insight in the hiring process. Here are the questions that actually get honest answers.
Why reference checks are worth doing properly
A perfunctory reference check, confirming job title, employment dates, and asking whether the reference would rehire, adds almost no predictive value to the hiring decision. A structured reference check using open, behavioural questions conducted by a skilled interviewer can reveal significant information about a candidate's working style, strengths, development areas, and cultural fit that is very difficult to surface in a direct interview. Candidates are naturally self-promoting in interviews; referees, particularly those proactively sourced rather than chosen by the candidate, are significantly more candid.
Questions that get honest answers
The most productive reference check questions are specific and behavioural: 'Can you describe a situation where [candidate name] had to navigate a significant setback at work and how they handled it?' and 'What advice would you give their next manager about how to get the best from them?' are significantly more revealing than 'How would you describe their strengths?' Ask referees to give you specific examples rather than general assessments. End every reference check with: 'Is there anything else you think would be important for us to know?' This open question frequently surfaces the most important information of the whole conversation.
