How Randstad Uses Refapp to Match the Right Candidate with the Right Employer

Customer Story Emelie Dahl

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"It’s the human side of our business that makes the difference. That’s why we combine the power of today’s technology with the passion of our HR professionals to create an experience that’s inherently more human. We call this Human Forward." - Randstad

Linda Cooper (2)

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Linda Cooper

Since 2016, Linda Cooper has worked as a consultant manager and recruitment consultant at Randstad Sweden.

In this case study, she shares her experience using Refapp and how the tool has become an integral part of Randstad's recruitment process.

What role does reference checking play in your recruitment process?

Linda: "Reference checking has always been an important part of our recruitment process. It helps us ensure that the right candidate ends up in the right position, with the opportunity to reach their full potential. However, we found the traditional method of phone reference checks to be inefficient and unstructured. We’re often asked to act as references for former colleagues ourselves, so we know how stressful scheduling and conducting reference calls can be. It tends to lead to rushed conversations and lower-quality responses.

We knew there was more value to be gained from this step of the process, so we were early adopters of alternative solutions. Initially, we implemented another provider for digital reference checks, but in 2022 we switched to Refapp, and we’ve been satisfied customers ever since."

As a large organization, how was the implementation of Refapp for Randstad?

Linda: "We had high expectations of Refapp, both in terms of product and service, and those expectations were exceeded! The implementation went smoothly, and despite being a large organization, it was easy to roll out the tool to our employees.

Today, Refapp is fully integrated into our processes. New employees at Randstad receive a brief introduction to Refapp during their onboarding and are ready to use the tool right away. It’s very user-friendly and smart."

Can you describe how a digital reference check works for a Refapp user at Randstad?

Linda: "We use an automated workflow with pre-built, competency-based questionnaires that we customize for each role in collaboration with the client.

When it's time for a reference check, Refapp sends a request to the candidate to submit their references. We also clarify what kind of references we're looking for— for example, a former manager or a client of the candidate.

Once the candidate submits their references, questionnaires are automatically sent via email or SMS to the references, who can respond at their convenience. Sometimes, there’s a preference to conduct the reference check over the phone, and we can easily schedule that through Refapp and record the responses directly in the system."

"On average, we have a completed reference report within 24 hours, which we can easily share with colleagues and clients via a link."

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What are the key benefits you’ve seen?

Linda: The biggest advantages we see with Refapp include:

  • Time savings
    We can focus on other tasks, such as conducting more candidate interviews and client meetings.
  • Improved candidate and reference experience
    Candidates submit their reference contacts themselves, and the references can respond at a time that suits their schedule. It’s more convenient for them and reduces manual work for us.
  • Competency-based approach
    We maintain a consistent thread throughout our recruitment process.
  • Objective, transparent, and secure process
    The reference responses are displayed unfiltered in the report, without any rewriting or interpretation from us.

Linda: "The biggest win is the combination of time savings and better data. On average, we receive reference responses within 24 hours, and we only spend a few minutes initiating the reference check. The information is relevant, reliable, and helps us and our clients make informed recruitment decisions."

"We are extremely happy with Refapp and our partnership – we can’t imagine being without you!"

Would you like to know more about digital reference checking with Refapp? Get in touch!