Fake references ruining careers: TimesJobs study

A TimesJobs study says while a majority of recruiters rely on references to ensure quality hires, many candidates tend to treat the process frivolously.


Reference checks are important

40% Hiring managers say reference checks ensures informed hiring decision

30% HR managers say it helps exclude applicants with inappropriate workplace behavior

21% say it helps them check the cultural fit of the candidate


References matter for hirings across the board

48% HR managers say reference checks are crucial while hiring for middle level positions

40% HR managers find reference checks important when hiring senior professionals.

12% HR managers say reference checks are necessary for hiring junior level employees

False references are a no-no
10-20% of applicants are rejected every month because of false references, say hirers.

59% HR managers say they develop an unfavorable opinion towards a candidate post a false reference check.

36% HR managers say they develop a favourable opinion towards the candidate post a positive reference check.

5% HR managers say references don’t matter and the interview is the deciding factor.

Source: TimesJobs Study conducted with inputs from over 650 HR managers pan-India across key sectors