A Guide to Providing a Reference

We are aware you have been asked to provide a reference before; however, we would like to make the process as simple and straightforward for you as possible.

As a referee, you are to ensure that the information you provide is accurate, factual, and free from insulting, discriminatory, or false comments. If you are unable to answer positively, simply state this fact.

A Veremark reference is analyzed on the volume of data provided assessed based on the quality and completeness of the information provided. Veremark provides a clear structure and a set of questions to help you provide relevant and consistent responses.

If, at any stage, you feel that you are not the best-suited point of contact to provide the reference, you can decline the request with a single click.

The Value of Written References 

A verbal reference sounds straightforward, you'll be able to provide some straightforward answers only to have the responses misunderstood and represented by the hirer or worse edited by the recruiter. Veremark lets you systematically deliver references in an unchanging and structured fashion that protects you from any discriminatory comments and ensuring the truth reaches the intended party.

'Off the record' does not exist

“This is 'Off the Record'” is sometimes what you will be told when doing a phone reference however this is incorrect. Either through spoken or written communication, you run the risk of being accountable for the data collected. Our solution helps you get through the process in an easy, safe and secure fashion minimizing the potential to be misrepresented.

The Candidate Clearly Thinks Highly of You 

Being asked to provide a reference may sometimes feel like an additional task or a demand on your time. However, the candidate has likely selected you because they value your opinion and see you as a trusted advocate for their skills and experience. A thoughtful reference can make a meaningful difference in someone’s career and may help them secure a role they genuinely want.

Before providing your reference, take a few minutes to reflect on your experience working with the candidate. The following questions may help jog your memory:

• How long did the candidate work with or for you?

• What were their key responsibilities, assignments, or deliverables during that time? 

• Did they receive any formal performance reviews or appraisals? If so, what were the outcomes? 
• Are there any additional insights you could gather from colleagues who worked closely with them? 
• Are you aware of why they moved on from the role? 
• Would you work with them again? If so, in what capacity? 

For further support please contact our client support team.