People who have left friends in their path are excellent staff. Some people, however, set up a path of friends as references, often pulling them along with them. Reference correctly Identify yourself, your restaurant and your wish to confirm employment of a previous employee when you first speak to the reference. Stick to objective questions. Not putting your referencer at risk by asking for opinions is a courtesy and will provide you with more information.
Objective questions range from inquiries into staff interaction to punctuality to preformance.
Have a list of points you consider important ready for the call. Tell your referencer that you will understand that he wishes not to answer some questions. Begin by confirming the resume. Give particular attention to dates of employment. Clarify inconsistencies immediately.