A reference check should do more than confirm employment. Done well, it tests the hiring thesis and helps the organization prepare for a leader’s success.
Ask for patterns, not ratings
Explore how the candidate makes decisions, communicates under pressure, builds trust, and responds when conditions change.
Connect references to the brief
Questions should reflect the outcomes and risks defined at the start of the search. Consistent themes across multiple conversations are more useful than isolated praise or criticism.
A better search starts with a better definition.
If you are navigating a critical hire, start a confidential conversation.