Why Checking References Matters (And Why SnapDragon Loves Them)
Posted on March 31, 2025
The Importance of Reference Checks in the Hiring Process
A few weeks ago, I received an email from a client explaining they had decided to hire an internal candidate, closing out our search. Out of curiosity, I decided to look up the candidate’s history in our data system. Sure enough, there he was—a candidate with nine jobs over the past fourteen years. I was stunned. Did no one think this was a red flag?
Something didn’t sit right, so I followed up. I called the candidate and the last three companies he worked for. Through this quick reference check, I found out that he’d been fired from his last job. There were rumors of drug and alcohol issues, and one person claimed he’d been asked to avoid returning to multiple customer sites. What stood out to me most? This hire was rushed, and no one took a moment to check references.
This type of oversight is all too common, yet it’s avoidable. At SnapDragon Associates, we see reference checks as a vital, non-negotiable step in the hiring process. Here’s why your business should, too.
Why Reference Checks Are Critical in Hiring
Avoid a Costly Bad Hire
When it comes to building a strong team, the stakes are high. A resume can highlight a candidate’s skills, and an interview might reveal a glimpse of their personality. But references? They provide a complete picture of the candidate’s professional track record.
Speaking with former managers and colleagues reveals insights you simply can’t find on paper. Are they truly the go-getter they claim to be? Do they respond to challenges with professionalism? Can they work harmoniously within a team? Reference checks shine a spotlight on these characteristics, helping you make confident, informed hiring decisions.
At SnapDragon, we help our clients prioritize employee vetting because we know the cost of a poor hire stretches far beyond lost productivity. It impacts morale, management time, and even revenue. Reference checks aren’t just about avoiding errors; they’re about building a team of exceptional quality that helps your business thrive.
Build Trust in Your Hiring Process
Reference checks don’t just protect businesses from poor hires. They also stand out as a testament to your company’s commitment to a thorough and professional hiring process. When candidates offer stellar references, these interviews highlight the strong working relationships they’ve built. This process benefits not just you, but also your company’s reputation.
At SnapDragon, a thorough reference-checking process also gives us opportunities to network with industry professionals. Every conversation reinforces our image as a firm that’s serious about connecting clients with incredible talent. It’s a win-win that enhances trust, builds goodwill, and strengthens professional partnerships.
How Reference Checks Fit Into SnapDragon’s Hiring Solutions
At SnapDragon, we’re passionate about finding the perfect fit for our clients. That’s why reference checks are a key step in our process. Skipping them might speed things up, but it leaves too much room for error. We make sure every hiring decision is backed by real-world evidence.
Here’s how we make reference checks a priority:
- Thorough Vetting: We ask the right questions to uncover a candidate’s strengths, work ethic, and possible areas of concern.
- Industry-Specific Insights: Our experience across industries helps us identify what’s critical in assessing candidate history.
- Collaborative Feedback: We work with our clients every step of the way, ensuring they have all the tools to make the best decision.
If your hiring process doesn’t already include this vital step, now’s the time to make a change. Reference checks go beyond checking off a box; they ensure your next hire is an asset, not a liability.
Take the Extra Step for Exceptional Hires
The right people can transform your business. But finding and securing those people requires a commitment to diligence, expertise, and care. At SnapDragon Associates, reference checks are integral to our strategy. They help protect businesses from missteps, improve relationships within the hiring process, and ensure incredible hires.
Whether you’re looking for your next star team member or seeking to improve your hiring process, we’re here to help. Don’t rush the decision; ask the extra questions, dig a little deeper, and hire with confidence. SnapDragon Associates is your partner every step of the way. Have a hiring need? CLICK HERE to get started!