How to Check References On LinkedIn

Imagine you had the capability to check a potential employee's references before you even received his or her resume. This is possible through a LinkedIn account. Being a member of LinkedIn has many advantages, including ways to check references. LinkedIn gives you an easy way to check future employees' references and those of possible business partners or even employers.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet access
• Knowledge of the years of an individual's employment
• Knowledge of the company an individual worked for
• LinkedIn account

Instructions

Search for References

1. Go to the LinkedIn Web site to begin (visit the Resources below).

2. Log on to your LinkedIn account and begin from your home page. If you do not have an account, start one by clicking on the "Join Now" button.

3. Access the site map, located at the bottom of the home page. You can also access the "Full Sitemap" by clicking on the link within the small site map.

4. Find the first category, titled "People." Notice the subcategories within "People."

5. Click on the "Reference Search" link subcategory.

6. Enter the name of the company and the years of employment for the individual you are checking. You will enter this information into the boxes provided for you.

7. Click on the "Search" button to begin your reference check.

Refine Your Reference Search

1. Choose to refine your search by clicking on the "Refine Your Search" link on the 'Reference Search" page.

2. Resubmit the information requested into the boxes provided for you. Include the company name and years of employment.

3. Select the "Search'" button to refine your reference check.

4. Click on the "More Search Tips" link for further assistance. A pop-up window will appear to provide you with further assistance.

5. Find the appropriate information on how to check references that contain particular details. This pop-up window explains searches containing quotes, parenthetical words, the use of "and" as well as "or."

Tips & Warnings

• The "Reference Search" link enables you to get information about potential employees and employers. You can use the "Reference Search" link to check references of people who may become your business partners.

• When searching for an exact phrase match, be sure to use quotes around that phrase.

• When using the Internet, make sure to keep your privacy settings in check.