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Yes, but it's only one source of information among many. I don't assume they sources of the references are telling the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, but I do consider what they say.

Hiring is a complex game, and I want all the information I can get.

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Respecting your time, if you could explain how you go about asking for references and what generally you ask about the candidate?

I contact the referee and say something like:

> XXXX is an applicant for a post we have here, and I'd appreciate anything you can tell me about them. Obviously I'm interested in their abilities and attitude, but I'd like to know anything you'd like to tell me. And of course, I will treat anything you say as confidential.

I'm looking for inconsistencies in stories, and then giving the candidate the best possible opportunity to provide evidence that they will provide value for the company, and be happy in their work.

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