Agree the purpose and process
Decide which work-related questions the reference is intended to answer and which role owns the review. Have the organization confirm its authorization, consent, privacy and retention arrangements before contacting anyone. This planning guide is not a completed background check or a universal Canadian hiring standard.
Keep the questions comparable
Use a consistent set of role-relevant prompts about the relationship to the applicant, the period worked together and examples relevant to the role. Distinguish a referee’s direct observations from assumptions or second-hand accounts. Record uncertainties and resolve conflicting information through the approved recruitment process rather than making an automated judgment.
Separate records from decisions
Store the response only in the approved recruitment system with appropriate access. Do not put references into a general team chat or upload them as training certificates. A person authorized by the employer should make and record any hiring decision using the required evidence. NurseFlex Canada does not currently conduct reference checks on behalf of employers.
Sources and scope
Editorial approach and corrections