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Reference Checks

Digital Reference Checks

Skip the voicemail tag. Our digital reference check platform reaches your candidate's former employers, managers, and colleagues automatically — then delivers structured, comparable reports you can actually use to make a decision.

FCRA-compliant · Integrated with your background screening workflow

Bchex digital reference check platform
FCRA-Compliant
SOC 2 Type 2 Certified
PBSA Accredited
24–48 Hour Turnaround
100+ ATS Integrations

Why Conducting Reference Checks Still Matters

Conducting reference checks is a crucial step in the hiring process.

Gain Deeper Insights

Understand a candidate's character, skills, and work ethic from those who have worked with them before.

Ensure Accuracy

Confirm the information provided by the candidate, ensuring their claims about their experience and qualifications are accurate.

Reduce Hiring Risks

Minimize the chances of hiring based on inaccurate or incomplete information.

Save Time

Our efficient electronic processing speeds up the reference check process, freeing you to focus on other critical tasks.

Boost Confidence

Make informed hiring decisions with detailed, reliable information from trusted sources.

A Bad Hire Costs More Than You Think

Reference checks are one of the cheapest safeguards during employee verification. The alternative is far more expensive.

85%

of employers have caught candidates lying on resumes.

46%

of candidates exaggerate their experience on their CVs.

$30k+

Average cost of replacing a mid-level hire who doesn't work out.

17 weeks

Average time lost to rehiring and retraining after a failed placement.

How Our Automated Reference Checks Work

Our reference check process is fully electronic, making it quick and efficient.

1

Submit Your Request

Initiate a reference check directly through our user-friendly platform by entering the candidate's details and reference information.

2

We Contact References

Bchex automatically reaches out to the provided references via secure electronic communication.

3

Written Responses Are Collected

References complete a structured questionnaire, providing standardized, detailed feedback.

4

Receive Your Report

All responses are compiled into a clear, comprehensive report that provides actionable insights into the candidate's experience.

Types of Reference Checks We Offer

We offer different types of reference checks to suit your needs. We have a different plan for each type of reference check package.

Personal References

Gain insights into a candidate's character and personal attributes from friends or acquaintances.

Professional References

Understand a candidate's work ethic, skills, and job performance from previous employers or colleagues.

Recommendations

Get recommendations from trusted sources who can vouch for the candidate's qualifications and suitability for the role.

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Our Sample Reference Check Questions

Every Bchex questionnaire is designed to elicit specific, useful information, not vague generalities. Below are examples of the types of questions references are asked. These can be customized based on the role and your organization's requirements.

1In what capacity did you work with this candidate, and for how long?
2How would you describe their overall performance relative to others in a similar role?
3Can you give a specific example of a time they handled a high-pressure situation effectively?
4How did they respond to constructive feedback or criticism?
5Would you describe them as someone who works better independently or as part of a team?
6Were there any areas where you felt they needed significant improvement?
7How did they interact with colleagues, clients, or stakeholders?
8Did they demonstrate leadership qualities, even if not in a formal leadership role?
9Would you rehire this person if the opportunity arose? Why or why not?
10Is there anything else you'd like to share that you feel is relevant to this candidate's suitability for a professional role?

For roles requiring additional scrutiny, consider pairing reference checks with a full background check for a comprehensive pre-employment screening package.

Smooth For You. Respectful For Them.

A reference check reflects on your employer brand. Bchex makes the process feel professional from every angle.

For Employers

  • Track every reference in real time from your dashboard
  • Automated follow-ups chase non-responders so you don't have to
  • Structured reports delivered straight to your inbox

For Candidates

  • Candidates are kept informed at every step of the process
  • References complete the form on any device, at any time
  • Professional, branded communications protect your reputation

Why Employers Choose Bchex for Reference Checks

Fast

Our electronic processing ensures that reference checks are completed quickly and reliably.

Comprehensive

Our structured questionnaires gather detailed information, providing you with a well-rounded view.

Easy

Our platform is designed to be user-friendly, making it easy for you to request and review reference checks.

Compliant

We follow best practices to ensure consistency and compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a reference check?

A reference check is a process where an employer contacts individuals who have previously worked with, managed, or known a job candidate and asks them structured questions about the candidate's performance, character, and suitability for a role.

How long do reference checks take?

Most reference checks conducted through Bchex are completed within 24 to 48 hours from the time the reference receives their invitation. Turnaround depends on how quickly references respond.

What questions are asked during a reference check?

Questions typically cover the candidate's job performance, work ethic, ability to work in a team, how they handle feedback, and whether the referee would recommend or rehire them.

Can a reference check hurt a candidate's application?

A reference check itself doesn't hurt a candidate, but the responses it surfaces might. If a reference raises concerns about performance, conduct, or honesty, that information is relevant to your hiring decision.

Are reference checks required by law?

Reference checks are not legally required in most jurisdictions, but they are strongly recommended as part of a thorough pre-employment screening process.

How much do reference checks cost?

Bchex offers flexible pricing to suit teams of all sizes. Visit our pricing page to explore individual check options and bundled packages that include reference checks alongside background checks and verifications.

Can I customize the questions Bchex asks?

Yes. While Bchex provides validated, professionally designed questionnaire templates, you can request customization to add role-specific questions or adjust the format to suit your hiring process.

Last updated: May 2026

Ready to Get Started?

Talk to one of our Chexperts today and see how our reference check service can help you make confident, informed hiring decisions.

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FCRA-Compliant · PBSA Accredited · SOC 2 Type 2 Certified