Sample Reference Interview Questions
Professional Reference Interview Questions
Employee/Volunteer Applicant:
Date:
Name of Reference:
Address:
Phone Number(s):
Sample script:
Hello, my name is x with [Name of Church]. (Applicant) has applied for a position with us and has provided your name as a reference. Is this a good time for you to talk with me?
I would like to start by letting you know that (Applicant) has applied for a position working with children so it is extremely important for us to make sure that (Applicant) is suitable for this type of position. I appreciate your help with this.
How long have you known the applicant?
How do you know the applicant?
How would you rate the applicant’s ability to learn new information and skills?
Can you give me an example of when the applicant was able to learn something new and use it in his/her work?
We are looking for someone who will adhere to the standard policies of our organization. How would you rate the applicant’s ability to follow policies and procedures?
How would you rate the applicant’s ability to work with and relate to other adults?
How would you rate the applicant’s ability to use good judgment in normal conditions?
How would you rate the applicant’s ability to use good judgment in stressful conditions?
Can you give me an example of when the applicant used good judgment?
Have you observed the applicant working with children?
If yes, how would you rate the applicant’s ability to relate to children?
Can you give me an example of how the applicant relates to children?
In what types of situations have you observed the applicant working well with children (enjoying the work, being effective)?
In what types of situations have you observed the applicant not working well with children (becoming frustrated, angry, resentful, or non-productive)?
How would you rate the applicant’s ability to maintain appropriate boundaries with children?
Are you aware of any reason why we should not allow the applicant to work with the children we serve?
Additional comments:
Signature of Person Screening Date
Personal Reference Interview Questions
Employee/Volunteer Applicant:
Date:
Name of Reference:
Address:
Phone Number(s):
Hello, my name is x with [Name of Church]. (Applicant) has applied for a position with us and has provided your name as a reference. Is this a good time for you to talk with me?
I would like to start by letting you know that (Applicant) has applied for a position working with children so it is extremely important for us to make sure that (Applicant) is suitable for this type of position. I appreciate your help with this.
How long have you known the applicant?
How do you know the applicant?
How would you rate the applicant’s ability to relate to adults?
Can you give me an example of how the applicant relates to adults?
How would you rate the applicant’s ability to work with and relate to children?
Can you give me an example of how the applicant relates to children?
We are looking for someone who can stay calm and control frustration even under very frustrating conditions with children. How would you rate the applicant’s ability to be patient and stay calm?
Can you give me an example of how the applicant relates to children?
Have you ever known the applicant to use harsh or abusive discipline with a child?
Would you be comfortable placing one of your own loved ones in the care of the applicant? Why or why not?
What are the applicant’s hobbies and recreational activities?
We need a person who can be supportive and understanding of a child’s needs. How would you rate the applicant’s ability to be genuinely supportive and understanding to a person in need?
Think of a time when the applicant was able to show genuine concern for another person who needed comfort. Tell me about that time.
How would you rate the applicant’s ability to maintain appropriate boundaries with children?
Additional comments:
Signature of Person Screening Date