These forms are built on modern recruitment research and best practices, helping recruiters collect more objective feedback while also enabling benchmark data and deeper insights in Refapp's reports.
Why have we introduced new standard forms?
Reference checking has traditionally varied greatly between organizations, recruiters, and positions. Different questions make it difficult to compare candidates and identify patterns over time.
Our standard forms solve this by using scientifically grounded questions that measure behaviours and competencies consistently across every reference check.
The benefits include:
- Better quality reference checks based on current research.
- More objective and structured feedback from referees.
- Benchmark data that allows you to compare candidates against broader datasets.
- More detailed reports with competency insights and behavioural indicators.
- Less time spent creating and maintaining custom questionnaires.
What's included in the standard forms?
The standard forms combine are built with different introductory sections for referees and combine several question types to provide a comprehensive view of each candidate.
Introduction
Each reference check begins with an introduction explaining the purpose of the reference check and approximately how long it will take to complete.
Performance and recommendation
Referees answer questions about:
- Overall performance
- Whether they would hire or recommend the candidate again
These answers provide an overall assessment while contributing to benchmark data.
Behavioural questions
The forms include behavioural rating scale questions based on characteristics that are important for successful job performance.
Rather than asking broad or subjective questions, referees rate observable behaviours using a consistent five-point scale.
After the behavioural section, referees can provide additional comments or explanations if they wish.
Counterproductive Work Behaviours (CWB)
The standard forms also include questions about behaviours that may negatively affect the workplace, sometimes referred to as Counterproductive Work Behaviours (CWB).
These questions help identify behaviours such as:
- Misuse of time
- Conflicts with colleagues
- Misconduct
- Disciplinary issues
Referees can answer Yes, No, or Don't know, and have the opportunity to explain their answers.
Report Insights
Because all candidates are assessed using the same research-based framework, Refapp can present richer insights in the final reference report.
Depending on your subscription, reports may include:
Performance overview
- Overall performance rating
- Recommendation score
- Characteristics score
- Benchmark comparisons
Counterproductive Work Behaviour overview
Potential behavioural risks are grouped into categories, making it easier to identify areas that may require further discussion during the recruitment process.
The report highlights any responses that differ from expected patterns while allowing you to review the referee's comments in context.
Which questionnaire should I choose?
Refapp currently offers two standard forms: Essential and Comprehensive. Both are based on the same research-backed methodology but differ in the number of characteristics they assess.
Essential 🚀
The new alternative to the old 'Quick' form.
The Essential questionnaire is a shorter reference check that focuses on two key characteristics associated with job performance:
- Industriousness: Works efficiently and performs tasks well.
- Aptitude: Easily understands complex information and quickly learns new tasks.
Choose the Essential questionnaire when you want a faster reference check while still gaining meaningful insights into a candidate's work performance.
Comprehensive 🔎
The new alternative to the old 'Deep' form.
The Comprehensive questionnaire provides a more in-depth assessment by measuring four characteristics:
- Industriousness: Works efficiently and performs tasks well.
- Achievement Striving: Sets ambitious goals and is motivated to achieve strong results.
- Aptitude: Easily understands complex information and quickly learns new tasks.
- Cooperativeness: Works well with others and contributes positively to collaboration.
Choose the Comprehensive questionnaire when you want a broader understanding of the candidate's work style, motivation, and collaboration skills.
💡 Frequently asked questions
Can I edit the standard forms?
Yes. You can create a copy of the new forms and customize it to fit your organization's needs. Please note that the Characteristics and Counterproductive Work Behaviours (CWB) sections cannot be modified, as changing these questions would affect benchmark comparability and the report insights available in Refapp.
If you'd like to explore additional Smart Refapp Forms or learn more about Refapp Insights, please contact your Customer Success Manager.
Will my existing forms disappear?
No. Your current forms remain available and can continue to be used.
Do I have to use the standard forms?
No. Custom forms are still fully supported. However, we recommend using the standard forms whenever possible to benefit from benchmark data and the latest research-based methodology.