How long does it take HR to check references? (2023)

How long does it take to hear back after reference checks?

The reference check process for each individual takes on average three to 10 business days. If you're the top choice you'll typically hear from the employer within three to 10 days. If you're a second or third choice for the position it will take longer to hear back from the employer.

Pre-employment checks can vary, due to the candidate and post etc. However, on average it can take 3 - 4 weeks.

One reason reference checks often take so long is that employers fail to utilize a standardized system. Having a consistent format for your reference interviews will save you time and make it easier to compare different candidates when making your hiring decision.

Yes, you can get rejected after a reference check. In fact, some sources say that candidates get rejected about 10 – 20% of the time after a reference check.

Do Employers Check References If They're Not Going to Hire You? If an employer is for sure not going to make you a job offer, they won't bother to check your references. In almost all cases, an employer will only check your references if you're a serious candidate for a position.

A reference check generally involves contacting applicants' former employers, supervisors, co-workers and educators to verify previous employment and to obtain information about the individual's knowledge, skills, abilities and character.

What Step Is A Reference Check In The Application Process? Conducting a reference check is often the final step a hiring manager or recruiter takes before presenting a job offer to a candidate. They may also conduct a background check and an employment history check, which we'll cover later on.

Most employers will call your references only if you are the final candidate or one of the final two. Occasionally the final three or four. Every now and then an employer will check all the people they interview, although to me that's inconsiderate of the reference.

References are not something to be scared of, they are an invaluable tool for you to embrace and utilise in securing your next role!

Does checking references mean your hired?

Remember this: When a hiring company makes a call to your references, it's almost always a good sign—so you can breathe easy. A reference check typically means a hiring manager is near-ready to extend an offer to a candidate, and they want one final confirmation that you are the right fit for their team, Foss says.

However, most employers take about three business days after checking their last reference to extend an offer to a candidate. You may take longer depending on your thoroughness and requirements.

The amount of time they are given to respond depends on the urgency of the request. If you need an answer in less than 24 hours, then you should give them 24 hours or less to respond. If it is not that urgent, then they should be given up to 48 hours to respond.

A reference check typically means a hiring manager is near-ready to extend an offer to a candidate, and they want one final confirmation that you are the right fit for their team, Foss says.