Managers guide to requesting references
Obtaining references from a successful job applicant's prior employers can be incredibly beneficial. This is because facts about a job applicant's previous experience and performance are typically a good predictor of his or her future performance in a comparable post.
- 4 pages / 1,369 words.
- Last updated 04/01/2023.
- Designed for United Kingdom use.
- Suitable for use in other territories; check local laws first.
- Instantly download as Word / PDF / plain text, or send by email.
- Includes 12 months’ access, with all updates to this page provided free of charge and notified to you.
Managers guide to requesting references
It is perfectly appropriate for an employer to want to ensure that the information provided as part of a job application is correct and comprehensive. Obtaining references from past employers will be a part of that procedure.
It is common practice for businesses to request two written references for each new employee they employ and to condition job offers on such references being satisfactory to the organisation.
Who should references be obtained for, and when?
While some companies choose to obtain references on all short-listed job applicants, this is time intensive and, in some cases, unnecessary. It is regarded best practice to seek references solely for those persons to whom the employer has chosen to provide an offer of employment.
This can be done either before or after the job offer is made, as the offer can be
You're currently viewing a limited preview. For instant full access, purchase this item or a parent bundle.
This Managers guide to requesting references aims to offer you a versatile and customisable tool, serving as a solid foundation for your needs. Utilise it to ensure consistency, enhance accuracy, and save valuable time.
Adapt it to suit your unique requirements, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness in your HR processes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use this template in my small business?
Yes. The Managers guide to requesting references is designed to be flexible and suitable for organisations of all sizes, including small businesses and charities. It follows UK employment law best practice, so even if you don't have an in-house HR team, you can confidently apply it.
-
Is this template compliant with 2025 UK employment law?
Absolutely. All of our templates are drafted with the latest ACAS guidance and UK employment legislation in mind. We review and update them regularly, so you can be confident they remain compliant.
-
Can I customise it for my organisation?
Yes, we highlight the areas that you need to update with your own details, and where you need to make decisions to suit your situation. This saves you time and ensures that you meet best practice.
-
Do I get instant access?
Yes. Once purchased, you'll be able to download it instantly. Templates are provided in editable Word or Excel format so you can customise them easily, and in PDF format for easy sharing.
-
What if I need more help, not just this template?
If you're looking for broader support, we also offer toolkits and library bundles that include this template, along with other HR templates and policies for fully managing your situation. These may be more cost-effective if you need deeper advice.
