Why skipping reference checks during the recruitment process, means you could be missing out on the real story of your next dental team member.
When hiring new team members, especially in a busy environment, reference checks often feel like a tedious and time-consuming step. After all, the candidates themselves provide these contacts, so isn’t it likely they’ll only list people who will speak positively about them? Besides, with resumes, cover letters, and interviews, you may feel like you already have enough insight into a candidate’s skills and personality. But here’s why skipping reference checks can be a missed opportunity, and why you should reconsidering their value in the hiring process.
- References Offer Context, Not Just Praise
A well-conducted reference check does more than confirm a candidate’s qualifications; it provides context on their work style, strengths, and areas for development. Managers who have worked with the candidate can offer insights into their problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and even challenges they’ve faced. According to LinkedIn, around 85% of recruiters say that these insights help identify potential red flags that don’t come through in interviews or resumes.
- Confirming Cultural Fit
Understanding a candidate’s cultural fit is critical, especially in tight-knit teams. Reference checks can reveal subtle nuances about a candidate’s collaboration style, response to feedback, and approach to conflict. This kind of information can help prevent mismatches that lead to turnover—a costly issue has been cited as up to 50% in the first 18 months.
- Building Trust and Transparency
By conducting reference checks, you’re showing candidates that you value transparency. Knowing that references will be contacted can encourage honesty from the start, helping to build trust on both sides of the hiring process. Additionally, while candidates may cherry-pick their referees, the questions we ask can still reveal plenty about their readiness for the role.
- Spotting Potential Red Flags Early
While interviews and resumes are often polished to perfection, reference checks may reveal any past behavioral or performance concerns. In many instances, managers have found critical discrepancies between a candidate’s claims and feedback from former employers.
I was shocked when one former employer told me that they were tired of lying about a candidate, that they would never hire her again, and that I shouldn’t either! That was a first, and I appreciated that feedback”. Renata Emilianowicz
Here are a few of our favourite questions to ask a candidate’s reference:
How well did they work within the team, and what was their approach to collaboration?
This question uncovers the candidate’s teamwork skills, which are vital in a collaborative environment like a dental practice. It also sheds light on their communication style and willingness to support other team members.
Can you describe their approach to patient care and interaction?
Patient experience is key in any dental practice. Ask the referee for specific examples of how the candidate interacted with patients, managed complaints, or went the extra mile to ensure patient comfort and satisfaction.
Can you tell me about their punctuality, attendance, and reliability?
Reliability is key in healthcare roles, where consistency impacts patient care and team morale. Responses here will indicate if the candidate is dependable or if there were any issues with attendance or timeliness.
How did they handle high-pressure situations or tight schedules?
Working in a dental practice can involve high-stress scenarios, especially when managing busy appointment schedules. This question reveals the candidate’s ability to stay composed, prioritise tasks, and manage stress effectively.
What area(s) do you think they could further develop or improve?
Reference checks are a good opportunity to learn about any potential growth areas. Understanding these will help set up realistic expectations and provide initial training or support to help them succeed.
How did they respond to feedback?
A referee’s perspective on the candidate’s response to feedback offers insight into their resilience, self-awareness, and openness to change.
For busy dental practice managers and employers, while reference checks can seem like just another step, they’re one of the best ways to get an honest view of a candidate’s potential, making them worth the effort for a stronger, more informed hiring process.