Reference Check Software Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 18 tools reviewed.
Get free help from our HR software advisors to find your match.
Reference check software is a useful tool for automating tedious processes, saving you time, and ensuring accuracy. They are great for minimizing manual reference checks, which can be time-consuming, inconsistent, and even biased. However, with so many reference check software options available, figuring out which best suits your needs can be tough. You want to verify candidate backgrounds efficiently but need a tool that meets your feature needs and your budget.
I've got you! In this post, I'll help narrow down the options by sharing my personal experiences using various reference check tools in HR management. I’ll give you my top software choices, including the key benefits and potential drawbacks, pricing, key features, and more. Here are my top reference check software options.
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Best Reference Check Software Software Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top reference check software selections to help you find the best software for your budget and business needs.
Tools | Price | |
---|---|---|
CSI | Pricing upon request | Website |
Verified First | Pricing upon request | Website |
Crosschq | Pricing upon request | Website |
First Advantage | Pricing upon request | Website |
Vitay | Pricing upon request | Website |
Referoo | Pricing upon request | Website |
HR Avatar | From $50/user/month | Website |
Xref | From $70/user/month | Website |
Reference Hunter | From $117/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
Zinc | Pricing upon request | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareHow to Choose Reference Check Software
As you work through your unique software selection process, keep the following points in mind:
- Integration with Existing Systems: When selecting reference check software, it's a good idea to ensure that it integrates well with your existing HR systems, such as your Applicant Tracking System (ATS). This integration helps maintain data consistency and eliminates redundant data entry, significantly reducing turnaround time and providing a complete and accurate view of candidate data.
- Compliance and Data Security: Compliance with data protection regulations such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is essential. The software should offer secure data storage, encryption, and access controls, ensuring that sensitive candidate information is protected.
- Automation and Efficiency: Automating the reference checking process can save valuable time and reduce manual effort. Look for software that automates tasks such as sending reference request emails, collecting responses, and organizing feedback. This speeds up the hiring process and ensures a standardized and consistent approach to reference checks.
- Customization and Flexibility: The ability to customize reference check questions based on the role is important for obtaining relevant and insightful feedback. Software that allows for adjustments and customizations can improve the quality of the information collected. Look for software that offers predefined questions or templates and the flexibility to tailor them to specific job requirements.
- User Experience and Support: Consider the user experience for your HR team and the candidates. The software should be user-friendly and provide a positive experience for all parties involved. Additionally, the level of customer support offered by the software provider should be evaluated. Look for prompt and responsive customer service, access to technical support, and training resources to ensure a smooth implementation and ongoing use of the software.
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Deel
This is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8 -
Rippling
This is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8 -
Willo
This is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8
Best Reference Check Software Reviews
This section provides an in-depth analysis and overview of each reference check software. We will walk through the pros and cons, their features, and their best use cases.
CSI provides thorough background screening services, including criminal checks, drug testing, reference checking, and employment verification.
Why I Picked CSI: I chose CSI for its in-depth background screening services that ensure thorough and accurate candidate evaluations. It has a range of services, including criminal and drug testing, employment and education verifications, and reference and credit checks, covering all critical aspects of a candidate’s background and providing employers with a reliable picture of their potential hires. CSI is committed to compliance, ensuring all screening processes adhere to legal and regulatory standards, making it a popular option for organizations seeking reliable background screening solutions and those with industry-specific requirements and standards.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include detailed criminal background checks, drug testing, employment verification, education verification, credit checks, identity verification, motor vehicle record checks, reference checks, integration with major HR platforms, and compliance with legal and regulatory standards.
Integrations include ADP, Paycom, iCIMS, JazzHR, Lever, SmartRecruiters, Taleo, Workday, BambooHR, and UKG.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Compliance-focused
- Reliable and detailed checks
- Broad screening service options
Cons:
- Limited self-service options
- Time-consuming setup and process
Verified First is an efficient background checker and reference verification with one-click integration for web-based solutions.
Why I Picked Verified First: I chose Verified First for its fast background checks and reference verifications. It has a one-click integration with different web-based HR solutions, meaning it smoothly integrates with existing systems without complex IT support or lengthy setup processes. Verified First provides customizable screening options, allowing users to tailor the background checks to meet specific needs. This flexibility ensures checks align with the hiring criteria. This tool is known for its fast turnaround times and extremely reliable background checks.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include customizable background screening solutions, integration with HR software, real-time background check status updates, comprehensive compliance support, fast turnaround times, and dedicated customer support.
Integrations include ADP, BambooHR, Bullhorn, iCIMS, Jobvite, Lever, Paychex, SAP SuccessFactors, Workday, and Zoho Recruit.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Flexible screening packages
- Customizable screening options
- Built-in action management
Cons:
- Complex integration for smaller HR teams
- Higher cost for extensive background checks
Crosschq transforms 360 digital reference checks into helpful candidate intelligence by validating skills, competencies, work history, and culture match without added hiring bias.
Why I Picked Crosschq: I chose Crosschq for its innovative 360 digital reference check approach, which collects feedback from a broad range of references, including supervisors, peers, and subordinates, ensuring a well-rounded evaluation of candidates. This method offers a complete view of the candidate’s skills, work habits, and cultural fit for hiring decisions. The software utilizes analytics and machine learning to analyze reference feedback and identify key patterns that traditional reference checks might miss, as well as automated follow-ups and real-time updates.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include automated reference checks, customizable questionnaires, AI-driven analytics, 360-degree feedback collection, fraud detection, data security and GDPR compliance, seamless integration with ATS, detailed reporting and insights, and custom branding options.
Integrations include Greenhouse, Lever, SmartRecruiters, Workday, iCIMS, Jobvite, Taleo, BambooHR, SAP SuccessFactors, and ADP.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Benchmarking capabilities
- Predictive analytics and machine learning
- 360-degree reference checks
Cons:
- Learning curve for advanced features
- Drop-down menus limit customization
First Advantage offers comprehensive background screening services to ensure thorough and reliable employment background checks.
Why I Picked First Advantage: I chose First Advantage because of its global background screening reach, ensuring reliable employment checks across multiple countries. It has an extensive network and expertise in international compliance, allowing it to provide detailed criminal record checks, employment, and education verifications regardless of location. This is helpful for multinational organizations that maintain consistent hiring standards worldwide. Additionally, it offers specialized screening services for various industries, including healthcare and finance, ensuring regulatory requirements and risks in each sector are addressed.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include global background screening reach, detailed criminal record checks, employment verifications, education verifications, industry-specific screening services, compliance with international regulations, and tailored solutions for various sectors.
Integrations include Workday, SAP SuccessFactors, Oracle HCM, ADP, Ultimate Software, BambooHR, iCIMS, Jobvite, SmartRecruiters, and Greenhouse.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- In-depth analytics and reporting
- Industry-specific screening
- International compliance expertise
Cons:
- Slight learning curve
- Potential delays for global requests
Vitay is a reference check software designed for quick and automated reference checks to support the hiring process. It simplifies gathering feedback from referees, reducing the time and effort required from HR teams.
Why I Picked Vitay: I chose Vitay for its ability to automate the entire reference-checking process, from sending out requests to collecting and analyzing feedback, ensuring a seamless and efficient workflow. The software offers customizable surveys, allowing organizations to tailor reference check questions to specific roles and requirements, and advanced analytics and reporting capabilities for detailed hiring insights. Vitay is most suitable for organizations that need rapid hiring processes due to its quick, automated, and accurate reference checks.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include automated reference check requests, customizable questionnaires, real-time feedback tracking, ATS and HR systems integrations, data-driven insights and analytics, and compliance with data protection regulations.
Integrations include Greenhouse, Workday, BambooHR, Lever, Jobvite, iCIMS, SmartRecruiters, ADP, Oracle, and SAP SuccessFactors.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Industry-standard benchmarks
- Includes behavioral and psychometric assessments
- Customizable branding for reference checks
Cons:
- Occasional delays in feedback
- Time-consuming initial setup and customization
Referoo is an Australian-owned online referencing tool that provides fast, simple, and secure reference checks for businesses of any size. It is customizable and offers different options to complete checks.
Why I Picked Referoo: I chose Referoo because it supports multiple methods of reference collection, including phone, email, and SMS, providing convenience for the recruiter and recruitee. This flexibility ensures references can be reached through their preferred communication channels, increasing timely feedback. Referoo allows the creation of highly customizable questionnaires to focus on the most relevant competencies and skills, real-time status tracking, reporting, and strong data security measures, ensuring all information is handled confidentially and in compliance with regulations.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include customizable reference check methods, automated reference checks, and the ability to generate detailed reports for clients.
Integrations include BambooHR, Vanta, SuccessFactors, Zapier, Workday, Pinpoint, Ashby, Teamtailor, HiBob, Workable, Lever, and Greenhouse.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Can handle international reference checks
- Highly customizable questionnaires
- Multimodal reference collection
Cons:
- Varying responsiveness of customer support
- Integration limitation
HR Avatar offers employment assessments and automated reference checks to enhance hiring outcomes. It provides objective data on candidates' abilities, personalities, skills, and track records.
Why I Picked HR Avatar: I chose HR Avatar for its insightful candidate profiling, including reference checks, personality assessments, and cognitive ability tests. The software uses natural language processing (NLP) to interpret qualitative feedback accurately from references. HR Avatar supports video reference checks, allowing for a more personal and in-depth evaluation of candidates, and offers predictive analytics capabilities that forecast candidate success and potential growth within the company.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated reference checks, customizable assessment tools, video interviewing capabilities, real-time tracking and reporting, predictive analytics, multilingual support, personality and cognitive assessments, and comprehensive candidate profiling.
Integrations include BambooHR, Workday, Greenhouse, Lever, SmartRecruiters, iCIMS, Jobvite, Taleo, ADP, and SAP SuccessFactors.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Natural language processing (NLP) for qualitative feedback
- Predictive analytics forecast
- Video reference checks
Cons:
- Due to extensive features setup can be time consuming
- Higher costs for small businesses
Xref is a software that automates feedback gathering from verified referees and reference checks and surveys.
Why I Picked Xref: I chose Xref because it automates the entire reference-checking process, significantly reducing the time and effort required from HR professionals. It can create and use customizable reference check templates that users can tailor to their needs, real-time analytics, detailed insights to help with hiring decisions, and performance benchmarks that enable performance and industry standards comparison. Additionally, Xref has a sophisticated fraud detection feature that helps verify the authenticity of references.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include automated requests, survey builders, people records, detailed reporting and insights, and additional checks for security and compliance.
Integrations include SEEK, Fit2work, Equifax, CVCheck, Checkr, Workday, Bullhorn, PageUp, iCIMS, and SmartRecruiters.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong fraud detection feature
- Customizable templates
- Automated reference checks
Cons:
- Limited PDF options for combining references
- Editing criteria and questionnaires can be complicated
Reference Hunter automates reference request scheduling and management, simplifying the hiring process.
Why I Picked Reference Hunter: I chose Reference Hunter because it excels in scheduling and reference request management. It is focused on automating these tasks to ensure that references requested are received promptly, saving time and administrative burden on HR teams. It has a tracking system to monitor the status of requests, keeps users updated on the progress, and detailed analytics and reporting features for important hiring decisions.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include automated scheduling of reference requests, real-time tracking of reference status, integration with major HR platforms, customizable reference check templates, secure data handling, and comprehensive candidate reference profiles.
Integrations include Greenhouse, Lever, Workday, BambooHR, SmartRecruiters, Jobvite, iCIMS, Bullhorn, JazzHR, and SAP SuccessFactors.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Efficient response tracking
- Reduces administrative workload
- Automates reference request scheduling
Cons:
- Additional training for complex reporting features
- Limited customization
Zinc is a reference check software that integrates directly with HMRC for instant employment data verification, providing real-time employment history data and reducing verification time.
Why I Picked Zinc: I chose Zinc for its smooth integration with HMRC (Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs), making it an ideal software for UK-based employers. This integration allows easy verification of employment history and tax records, which is intended to reduce fraudulent references. It offers a unified reference system where all feedback is collected and stored in a single and accessible platform, which simplifies reference data management. Zinc has a user-friendly interface, automated follow-ups, and real-time updates, and uses blockchain technology for data security and transparency.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include blockchain-based security, HMRC integration for employment verification, unified reference management, automated follow-ups, real-time updates, tamper-proof and verifiable reference data, a smooth candidate and recruiter experience, and compliance with data privacy regulations.
Integrations include Greenhouse, Lever, Workday, BambooHR, SmartRecruiters, Jobvite, iCIMS, Bullhorn, JazzHR, and SAP SuccessFactors.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Fast verification process with blockchain security
- Unified reference management
- Direct HMRC integration
Cons:
- Blockchain technology can be complex for some users
- Limited to UK employment data
Other Reference Check Software
Below is a list of additional reference check software that we shortlisted, but did not make it to the top list. Worth checking them out.
- TrustID
For online identity document validation
- Checkmate
For dynamic questionnaire tool
- VidCruiter
For video-based reference checks
- Mitratech
Tool for local and federal compliance
- HiPeople
For SMBs
- Sterling Check
For large hiring volumes
- RefNow
For a user-friendly interface
- Certn
For easy integration into hiring flows
Related HR Software Reviews
If you still haven't found what you're looking for here, check out these other related tools that we've tested and evaluated:
- HR Software
- Payroll Software
- Recruiting Software
- Employer of Record Services
- Applicant Tracking Systems
- Workforce Management Software
Reference Check Software Selection Criteria
Selecting reference check software involves evaluating its functionality and how well it meets specific use cases crucial for your organization. The criteria relate directly to the needs and pain points of software buyers, ensuring the chosen tool effectively supports the hiring process. This guide introduces the key features and aspects to consider when selecting reference check software, based on personal trials and extensive research.
Core Reference Check Software Functionality (25% of total score): To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases first:
- Ensure timely and accurate reference checks by automating the process of sending reference requests to referees
- Tailor questions to fit specific roles and requirements
- Ensure the software complies with data protection regulations like GDPR
- Smoothly integrations with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)
- Generate detailed reports and insights from reference feedback to inform hiring decisions
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score): To help me find the best software out of numerous available options, I also kept a keen eye out for unique features, including the following:
- Identification of suspicious activities, such as multiple responses from the same IP address
- Comprehensive feedback from multiple referees to get a well-rounded view of the candidate
- Uses AI to analyze reference data and predict candidate success
- Allow complete reference checks on mobile devices for convenience
- Customization of the interface, communication, and materials to reflect the company’s branding
Usability (10% of total score): To evaluate the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- An intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface that requires minimal training
- Drag-and-drop functionality to simplify tasks like questionnaire creation and report generation
- Responsive design to ensure the software works on different devices, including desktops, tablets, and smartphones.
Onboarding (10% of total score): To get a sense of each software provider's customer onboarding process, I considered the following factors:
- Provide guided tours to help new users understand the software’s features
- Offers comprehensive training resources to facilitate quick learning
- Provides pre-built templates and best practice guides to help users get started
- Offers real-time assistance through chatbots and support teams
Customer Support (10% of total score): To evaluate the level of customer support each vendor offered, I considered the following:
- 24/7 support availability to promptly address any issues
- Support is reachable through various channels, including phone, email, and live chat
- Assigned account managers to assist with onboarding and ongoing support
- The knowledge base is maintained with articles and FAQs users can read and use
Value for Price (10% of total score): To gauge the value of each software, I considered the following factors:
- Clear and upfront pricing without hidden costs
- Offers various pricing plans to suit different business sizes and needs
- Cost-benefit analysis by evaluating the software’s features and benefits against its cost
- Provides free trials to allow potential buyers to test the software before committing
Customer Reviews (10% of total score): Evaluating customer reviews is the final element of my selection process, which helps me understand how well a product performs in the hands of real users. Here are the factors I considered:
- High ratings and positive feedback from current users
- Real-world examples of how the software has benefited other organizations
- Consistent positive reviews across multiple platforms
- The company’s responsiveness to user feedback and willingness to make improvements
Trends for Reference Check Software in 2024
Reference check software is evolving rapidly. Here are some key trends to watch in the coming future as you consider your next reference-checking tool.
- AI-Powered Reference Checks: AI is being used to automate and analyze reference checks, reducing human error and speeding up the recruitment process. It also provides deeper insights into candidate suitability.
- Blockchain for Data Security: Blockchain technology is being integrated to ensure data security and integrity, making reference checks tamper-proof. It builds trust with both employers and candidates.
- Mobile Accessibility: Mobile-friendly reference check platforms are on the rise, allowing checks to be completed on the go. It increases convenience for both referees and employers.
- Real-Time Feedback: Real-time feedback systems are becoming more common. They allow for immediate insights and quicker decision-making that helps in reducing the hiring timeline.
- Integration with HR Systems: Reference check software is increasingly being integrated with broader HR systems, creating a unified platform for all hiring activities. It simplifies the workflow for HR professionals by allowing them to generate and access reference reports and other employee information all in one place.
As you consider your next reference check tool, keep in mind how these trends may be influencing the industry and upcoming features. Many software options already have many of these features, as it is becoming more and more necessary to include things like HR system integrations and mobile-friendly software. While some features like AI are not necessary, they are certainly changing the way things are done and cutting down on manual tasks which can save you time and effort.
What Is Reference Check Software?
Reference check software is a tool that automates the process of collecting and verifying references for job candidates. It is commonly used by HR professionals and hiring managers to streamline the reference-checking process, ensuring that they gather accurate and comprehensive information about a candidate's past performance and qualifications.
A reference check software’s primary components are automated request emails, customizable questionnaires, and data analytics tools. These features help users collect and analyze reference feedback efficiently, reducing the time and effort required to manually contact and follow up with references.
Features of Reference Check Software
When selecting reference check software, it's crucial to understand the key features that will help you make informed hiring decisions. Here are the most important features to look for:
- Automated Reference Requests: This feature allows you to send reference requests automatically, saving time and ensuring consistency in the process.
- Customizable Questionnaires: The ability to tailor questions to fit specific roles or company needs ensures you gather relevant information from references.
- Integration with HR Systems: Seamless integration with existing HR software helps maintain a unified workflow and reduces manual data entry.
- Real-Time Status Tracking: This feature lets you monitor the progress of reference checks, ensuring you stay updated and can follow up as needed.
- Data Security and Compliance: Ensuring that the software complies with data protection regulations is crucial for maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of reference information.
- Reporting and Analytics: Detailed reports and analytics provide insights into reference feedback, helping you make data-driven hiring decisions.
- Mobile Accessibility: Accessing the software from mobile devices allows flexibility and convenience, especially for remote teams.
- Candidate Self-Service Portal: A portal where candidates can enter their reference details directly can streamline the process and reduce administrative workload.
- Multi-Language Support: This feature is important for companies with a global presence, ensuring that reference checks can be conducted in various languages.
- Customer Support: Reliable customer support ensures that any issues with the software can be resolved quickly, minimizing disruptions to your hiring process.
Choosing the right reference check software with these features will help you gather comprehensive and reliable information, ultimately making better hiring decisions.
Benefits of Reference Check Software
Reference check software offers numerous advantages to organizations, streamlining the hiring process and ensuring more reliable and insightful feedback about candidates. This software automates and enhances various aspects of reference checking, saving time and improving data accuracy. Here are the five primary benefits that potential buyers should consider.
- Increased Efficiency: Automating reference requests reduces manual effort and speeds up the reference-checking process, allowing HR teams to focus on other important tasks.
- Enhanced Accuracy: Identifying suspicious activities, such as multiple responses from the same IP address, helps ensure the integrity and reliability of the information collected.
- Comprehensive Feedback: Collecting 360-degree feedback from multiple referees provides a well-rounded view of the candidate’s abilities and performance, leading to more informed hiring decisions.
- Predictive Insights: Leveraging AI and analytics to analyze reference data can predict candidate success, improving the accuracy and effectiveness of hiring decisions by identifying top-performing candidates.
- Improved Accessibility: Allowing referees to complete reference checks on mobile devices enhances convenience and increases response rates, making the process more flexible and accommodating for all parties involved.
Reference check software optimizes the hiring process and ensures that the feedback received is accurate, comprehensive, and insightful. This results in better hiring decisions and a more efficient human resources workflow. Investing in such software can significantly benefit organizations by enhancing the overall quality and speed of their recruitment efforts.
Costs and Pricing of Reference Check Software
When considering reference check software, it's important to understand the various pricing plans available to find one that suits your organization's needs and budget. Different plans offer varying features, from basic options suitable for small businesses or trial purposes to more advanced plans designed for larger organizations with extensive hiring processes. Here is a breakdown of the typical plans and pricing options available for reference check software:
Plan Comparison Table for Reference Check Software
Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
Free Plan | $0 | Basic reference requests, limited number of reference checks per month, and simple reporting |
Basic Plan | $50/month | Automated reference requests, customizable questionnaires, basic fraud detection, and standard support |
Professional Plan | $150/month | All features of the Basic Plan, plus advanced fraud detection, integration with ATS, enhanced reporting and insights, and priority support |
Enterprise Plan | Custom Pricing | All features of the Professional Plan, plus AI and analytics, unlimited reference checks, mobile accessibility, custom branding, and a dedicated account manager |
Each plan is designed to cater to different usage and requirements, from those just starting with reference checks to organizations needing a comprehensive solution with advanced features. Buyers should carefully consider the features and support levels needed for their hiring processes when choosing a plan.
FAQs About Reference Check Software
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions you may have about reference check software and how it works:
How does reference check software improve the hiring process?
It reduces manual effort, ensures consistent reference checks, and speeds up hiring processes. Automated systems provide reliable and uniform data for better hiring decisions.
Is reference check software secure?
Yes, reputable reference check software complies with data protection regulations like GDPR. It employs robust security measures to protect sensitive candidate and referee information.
Can reference check software integrate with existing HR systems?
Most reference check software can integrate seamlessly with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and other HR tools. This integration enhances workflow efficiency and centralizes candidate information.
How can AI improve reference checks?
AI can analyze reference data to predict candidate success and identify patterns. It enhances decision-making by providing deeper insights into candidate potential making it easier and faster to hire top talent.
Can referees complete reference checks on mobile devices?
Yes, many reference check software solutions offer the ability to digitally collect references right from your phone. This also allows references to submit references from their mobile device. Unlike making cold phone calls, online reference checking increases response rates and accommodates referees’ busy schedules.
Does reference check software support multiple languages?
Many reference check software solutions support multiple languages. This feature is beneficial for companies with a diverse workforce or international candidates.
What kind of support is available for reference check software users?
Support options vary but often include email, phone support, live chat, and comprehensive online resources. Higher-tier plans may offer dedicated account managers and priority support.
Can reference check software be customized to fit our company's branding?
Yes, many reference check software providers offer customization options. This allows the interface and communications to reflect your company’s branding, ensuring a professional appearance.
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