The advent of freedom of information legislation additionally makes referees more cautious in providing unfavourable information. However, occasionally a referee may make a comment that alerts the selection committee to an issue that should be explored at interview. There is evidence that a structured reference in which the referee is asked to comment on the candidates abilities for each of the selection criteria is more useful than an open reference. See standard letter - referee request . Alternatively, you may wish to ring referees.
Phone calls can reveal more candid information.
Enlist candidates help to obtain referee reports quickly When a candidate is shortlisted for interview, it can be useful to ask the candidate to ensure their referee completes the reference quickly. This will minimise the possibility that the selection process is held up waiting for referee reports. No more than two referee reports should be sought for each shortlisted candidate . Central tendency - the tendency to avoid all extreme judgements and rate all candidates as average or neutral. Recency effects - the tendency to remember recent information, particularly if it is negative, and to forget offsetting information.