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Telephone References Versus

Written References:

Pros and Cons

Special Report From: EasySmallBusinessHR.com

This ebook highlights the pros and cons of using telephone

references versus written references and how the information that

you obtain based on each reference type can positively or

negatively impact your hiring decision.

Telephone Reference Pros:

1. You are able to ask very direct questions and listen to and more

fully assess the references’ responses to your questions. You can

really learn a lot by listening to a person’s tone that you would

never be aware of if you are reviewing a written reference.

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2. You are able to ask follow up questions based on those

responses that you may never have thought of asking before that

will give you additional insight into your job candidate.

3. When speaking to someone on the phone, you can build a

rapport with them; even in a short period of time.

4. You often obtain more detail when speaking to someone on the

phone.

Telephone Reference Cons:

1. It’s oftentimes hard to reach people by phone. Phone calls from

strangers are sometimes seen as an interruption at best.

2. If you are calling someone in a different time zone, finding a

time to speak to each other can present a challenge.

3. There is no real way to verify that the person you are speaking

with is really who they say that they are.

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Now, onto the pros of Written References:

Written Reference Pros:

1. Many job applicants often have written references already

prepared in advance of the interview so you are able to get some

insight into the applicant early on in the process.

2. Many written references are often full of detailed information

about the applicant.

Written References Cons:

1. Written references become dated very quickly and many

candidates don’t obtain updated written references.

2. There may not be a way to verify that the reference is who they

say that they are without calling to verify that person’s name and

position within the company. You still have to trust that the person

is who they say that they are, similar to telephone references.

In general, my preference is for telephone references. I find that it

is easier to verify that I’m placing a call with a legitimate company

and, I have an opportunity to ask follow up questions, as well as

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listen to the reference givers’ vocal expression’s during the call. I

find being able to do this extremely helpful.

It doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t accept written references, but

you should insist that any written references be recent, and you

should verify the references with a follow up phone call. Most

written references provide a telephone number encouraging people

to call with any additional questions.

I wish you luck in your hiring efforts!

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