First Round Review · 9 October 2026 · Operating Insight

References are the most underrated tool in hiring

First Round Review

A practical playbook for transforming reference checks from a perfunctory final step into a rigorous early-stage hiring tool by running 3–15 calls per candidate with targeted questions, blending front- and back-door sources, and actively listening for patterns that reveal how someone will perform in your specific role and culture.

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Topics: HR & Talent

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