3120D - CHECKING REFERENCES OF APPLICANTS

The following procedure is to be used when conducting a check of references submitted by an applicant:

1. Review the references with the applicant to ensure that those submitted are people with whom the applicant has worked on a regular basis either in a job setting or an academic setting or both. For administrators, it is important to have references from superintendents and board members with whom the applicant worked. Make sure the references have worked with the applicant within the last three (3) to five (5) years. Determine from the reference if other people who worked with the applicant are available to provide information concerning suitability for the job.
2. Make telephone (not mail) contact with at least three (3) references. (see Form 3120D F2)
3. Prior to contacting the reference, review AG 3120C regarding questions not to ask.
4. Confine questions to the applicant's suitability for employment work performance, including interpersonal skills. Ask "would you hire ________________ again?" or "would you want to work with ________________ again?". Ask the reference to give specific examples of what the applicant did well and/or to rate the applicant on various aspects of the job for which the person is applying.
5. Take notes of each reference contact. Maintain a written summary of the comments for later use.