Reference checks are a critical component of the recruitment process and when done properly, can lead to increased applicant quality, reduced losses for employee dishonesty, and greater profits. Employment Office’s Shortlisting Specialist team has developed a list of tips for performing effective reference checks, which can ultimately save a company both time and money by avoiding re-recruitment. These tips include: tailor your reference check questions to help clarify any potential areas of concern; specify ahead of time what sort of questions you are going to ask; and implement free ‘modern day reference checks’ by making the most of social media.