Quick Overview
- 1#1: Checkster - Automates 360-degree reference checking by collecting structured feedback from multiple referees to predict job success.
- 2#2: SkillSurvey - Delivers competency-based reference surveys that provide predictive analytics on candidate performance.
- 3#3: RefNow - Streamlines reference checks with automated email invitations and digital forms for quick referee responses.
- 4#4: Verify500 - Offers automated employment and reference verification with AI-powered insights and compliance tools.
- 5#5: TruDiligence - Provides specialized reference checking and employment verification services with detailed reporting.
- 6#6: HireRight - Conducts global employment verification and reference checks as part of comprehensive background screening.
- 7#7: Sterling - Delivers fast reference verification integrated with full-suite background screening solutions.
- 8#8: Checkr - Enables quick background checks including reference verification with modern API integrations.
- 9#9: GoodHire - Offers FCRA-compliant background checks with affordable reference check add-ons for small businesses.
- 10#10: First Advantage - Provides large-scale screening services including employment references for enterprise clients.
Tools were ranked based on features like automation capabilities and predictive analytics, quality of feedback and reporting, user-friendliness, and overall value, ensuring alignment with diverse organizational needs from startups to enterprise-level operations
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores top reference checking software tools, including Checkster, SkillSurvey, RefNow, Verify500, TruDiligence, and more, to simplify evaluating options for effective candidate vetting. Readers will discover key features, usability, and functionality to inform their selection, enhancing hiring processes.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Checkster Automates 360-degree reference checking by collecting structured feedback from multiple referees to predict job success. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | SkillSurvey Delivers competency-based reference surveys that provide predictive analytics on candidate performance. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 3 | RefNow Streamlines reference checks with automated email invitations and digital forms for quick referee responses. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Verify500 Offers automated employment and reference verification with AI-powered insights and compliance tools. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | TruDiligence Provides specialized reference checking and employment verification services with detailed reporting. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | HireRight Conducts global employment verification and reference checks as part of comprehensive background screening. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 7 | Sterling Delivers fast reference verification integrated with full-suite background screening solutions. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 8 | Checkr Enables quick background checks including reference verification with modern API integrations. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.3/10 |
| 9 | GoodHire Offers FCRA-compliant background checks with affordable reference check add-ons for small businesses. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 10 | First Advantage Provides large-scale screening services including employment references for enterprise clients. | enterprise | 7.4/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.2/10 | 6.8/10 |
Automates 360-degree reference checking by collecting structured feedback from multiple referees to predict job success.
Delivers competency-based reference surveys that provide predictive analytics on candidate performance.
Streamlines reference checks with automated email invitations and digital forms for quick referee responses.
Offers automated employment and reference verification with AI-powered insights and compliance tools.
Provides specialized reference checking and employment verification services with detailed reporting.
Conducts global employment verification and reference checks as part of comprehensive background screening.
Delivers fast reference verification integrated with full-suite background screening solutions.
Enables quick background checks including reference verification with modern API integrations.
Offers FCRA-compliant background checks with affordable reference check add-ons for small businesses.
Provides large-scale screening services including employment references for enterprise clients.
Checkster
specializedAutomates 360-degree reference checking by collecting structured feedback from multiple referees to predict job success.
Reference Success Score, an AI-powered metric that predicts candidate job success with proven correlation to 18-month retention and performance.
Checkster is a premier reference checking software that automates the entire process of collecting structured feedback from candidate references via customizable, competency-based surveys. It leverages AI-driven analytics to generate predictive success scores, benchmarking insights, and detailed reports that correlate reference data with on-the-job performance. Designed for enterprise-scale hiring, it integrates seamlessly with ATS platforms and ensures compliance with global data privacy regulations like GDPR.
Pros
- Exceptional automation with 95%+ reference completion rates through mobile-friendly surveys
- Advanced predictive analytics and Success Score for data-driven hiring decisions
- Robust integrations with major ATS like Workday, Greenhouse, and Lever
Cons
- Enterprise pricing can be prohibitive for small businesses or low-volume users
- Initial setup and customization require dedicated admin time
- Advanced reporting features have a moderate learning curve
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with high-volume recruiting needs seeking predictive insights from references to reduce hiring risks.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically $25-50 per reference check or volume-based subscriptions starting at $10,000+/year—contact sales for quotes.
SkillSurvey
specializedDelivers competency-based reference surveys that provide predictive analytics on candidate performance.
Benchmarking against a proprietary database of 11+ million references to predict candidate success and identify skill gaps
SkillSurvey is an automated reference checking platform that sends customized online surveys to candidate references, collecting structured feedback on key competencies and behaviors. It leverages a massive database of over 11 million completed references to provide benchmarking, predictive analytics, and hiring risk scores. The tool integrates with major ATS systems, enabling recruiters to make data-driven decisions faster and with higher accuracy.
Pros
- Extensive benchmarking from millions of references for objective insights
- High reference completion rates (often 90%+) due to mobile-friendly surveys
- Seamless ATS integrations and customizable questionnaires
Cons
- Enterprise-level pricing may not suit small teams or low-volume users
- Limited flexibility for non-standard reference types
- Occasional delays in support response for custom configurations
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises and high-volume recruiters seeking predictive, data-backed reference validation to reduce hiring risks.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on volume; typically $10-25 per reference check or annual subscriptions starting at $20,000+.
RefNow
specializedStreamlines reference checks with automated email invitations and digital forms for quick referee responses.
Guaranteed 24-hour reference collection with automated reminders and 92% response rate
RefNow (refnow.io) is an automated reference checking platform that streamlines the collection of candidate references by sending instant, customizable requests via email or SMS to referees. It features structured questionnaires, automated reminders, and AI-powered analysis to deliver risk scores, summaries, and compliance-ready reports in as little as 24 hours. Designed for recruiters, it integrates with ATS systems and LinkedIn to enhance efficiency in high-volume hiring.
Pros
- Ultra-fast turnaround with 92% responses in under 24 hours
- Intuitive interface requiring minimal setup
- AI-driven insights and customizable scoring for quick decisions
Cons
- Limited advanced integrations compared to enterprise tools
- Pay-per-check model can add up for very high volumes
- Lacks built-in phone or video reference capabilities
Best For
Recruiting teams in mid-sized companies seeking rapid, reliable reference checks without complex configurations.
Pricing
Pay-per-reference from $5/check or subscription plans starting at $99/month for unlimited checks.
Verify500
specializedOffers automated employment and reference verification with AI-powered insights and compliance tools.
AI-powered referee response analysis that flags inconsistencies and provides credibility scores
Verify500 is an AI-powered background verification platform specializing in automated reference checking, employment verification, and other pre-employment screenings. It streamlines the process by sending digital requests to referees, capturing responses securely, and generating detailed reports with accuracy scores. Primarily targeted at HR teams in India, it offers quick turnaround times and integration with applicant tracking systems.
Pros
- Rapid verification with 24-48 hour turnaround
- High accuracy through AI analysis and large database
- Customizable templates and ATS integrations
Cons
- Limited global coverage outside India
- Pricing can add up for high-volume users
- Mobile app lacks advanced features
Best For
Mid-sized HR teams in India handling high-volume hiring with a need for fast, automated reference checks.
Pricing
Pay-per-verification starting at ₹99/check; enterprise subscriptions from ₹50,000/month based on volume.
TruDiligence
specializedProvides specialized reference checking and employment verification services with detailed reporting.
Reference authenticity verification using digital signatures and ID checks
TruDiligence is an automated reference checking platform that simplifies the hiring process by sending customizable surveys to candidate references via email or SMS. It collects structured feedback, verifies reference authenticity, and generates insightful reports with sentiment analysis to aid hiring decisions. The software ensures compliance with GDPR and other privacy regulations while integrating with popular ATS systems.
Pros
- Highly customizable questionnaires for tailored feedback
- Automated reminders and follow-ups to boost response rates
- Robust analytics and compliance tools for secure data handling
Cons
- Limited advanced AI features compared to top competitors
- Integrations with some ATS platforms can be clunky
- Pricing scales quickly for high-volume users
Best For
Mid-sized recruiting teams seeking reliable, compliance-focused reference automation without excessive complexity.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting at around $99/month for basic plans, with per-reference fees for higher volumes.
HireRight
enterpriseConducts global employment verification and reference checks as part of comprehensive background screening.
Structured behavioral interviewing via automated phone surveys with verbatim transcription and scoring.
HireRight is a leading provider of background screening solutions that includes robust reference checking capabilities as part of its comprehensive pre-employment verification services. The platform automates reference checks through structured questionnaires delivered via email, phone, or online portals, capturing detailed feedback on candidates' performance and fit. It emphasizes compliance with regulations like FCRA and integrates seamlessly with ATS and HRIS systems for streamlined workflows.
Pros
- Highly compliant and secure reference verification process
- Fast turnaround times with automated and agent-assisted checks
- Strong integrations with major ATS platforms like Workday and Taleo
Cons
- Pricing is enterprise-focused and opaque without custom quotes
- Interface can feel complex for smaller teams new to enterprise tools
- Less specialized in advanced analytics compared to pure reference check software
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises seeking integrated background screening with reliable reference checks.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically $20-50 per reference check, with volume discounts and bundled screening packages.
Sterling
enterpriseDelivers fast reference verification integrated with full-suite background screening solutions.
Live-agent reference interviews providing nuanced insights beyond automated surveys
Sterling is a leading background screening provider offering robust reference checking as part of its comprehensive pre-employment verification services. It automates reference collection through candidate portals, conducts structured phone or online interviews, and verifies employment history with high accuracy. The platform emphasizes FCRA compliance, rapid turnaround, and integration with ATS systems for streamlined hiring workflows.
Pros
- Strong FCRA compliance and legal expertise minimizes risk
- Fast turnaround times, often 1-2 business days
- Seamless integrations with major ATS like Workday and iCIMS
Cons
- Pricing is quote-based and higher for low-volume users
- Enterprise-focused interface may overwhelm small teams
- Less specialized in references compared to pure-play tools
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with high-volume hiring needing compliant, integrated reference checks within broader background screening.
Pricing
Custom quotes based on volume; reference checks typically $25-60 each, with discounts for enterprise packages.
Checkr
enterpriseEnables quick background checks including reference verification with modern API integrations.
CandidateConnect for self-initiated, candidate-driven reference submissions that accelerate the process
Checkr is a leading background screening platform that includes reference checking as part of its verification services, automating outreach to candidates' references via email or phone for feedback on skills, performance, and reliability. It offers customizable questionnaires and generates concise reports integrated into the hiring workflow. Designed for scalability, Checkr ensures FCRA compliance and seamless ATS integrations to support high-volume recruiting.
Pros
- Rapid turnaround times, often completing reference checks in 1-2 days
- Enterprise-grade compliance and data security (FCRA, SOC 2)
- Strong integrations with ATS platforms like Workable, Greenhouse, and Lever
Cons
- Reference checking is secondary to core background screening, lacking deep customization
- Pricing is quote-based with limited public transparency
- Reports provide structured but sometimes superficial insights compared to specialized tools
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises seeking integrated background and reference screening with compliance focus.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; reference checks typically $15-35 per verification, with volume discounts for high usage.
GoodHire
enterpriseOffers FCRA-compliant background checks with affordable reference check add-ons for small businesses.
Direct human-led outreach to up to three professional references with FCRA compliance guarantees
GoodHire is a FCRA-compliant background screening platform that includes professional reference checking as part of its employment verification services, contacting previous employers or references via phone or email. It streamlines the process by automating outreach and compiling feedback into easy-to-read reports within applicant tracking systems. While not exclusively focused on references, it integrates reference checks seamlessly with criminal, education, and other verifications for comprehensive hiring insights.
Pros
- FCRA-compliant with fast turnaround (1-3 business days for references)
- Intuitive dashboard and ATS integrations (e.g., Greenhouse, Lever)
- Reliable verifier contact via phone/email for accurate feedback
Cons
- Reference checking is secondary to core background screening focus
- Limited customization of reference questions (standard templates only)
- Pay-per-check pricing can add up for high-volume reference-only needs
Best For
Small to mid-sized businesses seeking integrated background and reference checks without needing advanced reference analytics.
Pricing
Pay-as-you-go plans start at $29.99 per basic check; reference checks as $20-35 add-ons or bundled in Verify/Premium packages ($39.99+); volume discounts for enterprises.
First Advantage
enterpriseProvides large-scale screening services including employment references for enterprise clients.
Automated multi-channel reference contacting (phone, email, SMS) with AI-powered data validation and inconsistency flagging
First Advantage is a comprehensive background screening platform that includes reference checking as part of its employment verification services, automating the collection and contact of candidate-provided references via email, phone, or online portals. It verifies employment history, job titles, dates, and performance feedback while ensuring compliance with FCRA and other regulations. The platform integrates with major ATS and HRIS systems, delivering detailed reports for high-volume hiring needs. While robust for enterprise-scale screening, it is less specialized purely for reference checks compared to dedicated tools.
Pros
- Strong global reach and multilingual support for international reference checks
- Seamless integrations with ATS like Workday and Taleo
- High compliance standards with audit trails and FCRA adherence
Cons
- Pricing is enterprise-focused and expensive for SMBs or low-volume users
- Setup and customization can be complex for non-technical users
- Turnaround times for reference checks can exceed 3-5 business days
Best For
Large enterprises and global organizations needing integrated background screening with reliable reference verification.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing with per-check fees typically $25-$60 for reference verification, volume discounts available, no public self-serve plans.
Conclusion
The reviewed tools demonstrate innovative approaches to reference checking, with Checkster leading as the top choice for its automated 360-degree feedback and success prediction capabilities. SkillSurvey and RefNow follow closely, offering strong alternatives—SkillSurvey with competency-based analytics and RefNow with streamlined efficiency. Each solution caters to distinct needs, yet Checkster stands out as the optimal pick for comprehensive hiring support.
Take the next step in smarter hiring: try Checkster today to leverage its predictive insights and automated workflows, or explore SkillSurvey or RefNow if your priorities lie with specialized analytics or speed.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison