RefNow vs The Reference Checker

RefNow automates employment reference checks for hiring teams, from collecting referee details to delivering reports. Candidates provide referee details, and referees respond through a secure, mobile-friendly questionnaire. The platform tracks requests and automation attempts in real time, sends reminders, and uses algorithms to identify potentially fraudulent references. RefNow says its LinkedIn and YOTI partnerships help verify reference authenticity and provide additional candidate insights. Teams can download PDF reports and manage users with permission groups. The service also offers Right to Work checks and Basic, Standard, and Enhanced DBS checks. The maker lists more than 65 ATS and HRIS integrations and an Open API for custom connections. RefNow Respond automates incoming references for former employees after candidate consent, then generates and sends a PDF report to the requester. One reference credit covers up to 10 references from one candidate; bulk discounts and subscriptions are available, but no plan price is listed. RefNow is available on the web and through an API, and is based in London, England.

The Reference Checker automates job-reference requests and follow-up for employers. A customer can send requests directly to referees or have job seekers register and request them. The web portal sends email messages and reminders, and an anti-fraud algorithm helps identify whether references are genuine. Email and question templates can be customised; the service also creates branded PDF references and supports digital signatures. Reporting breaks down statistics and information by team and user. The company says it offers integrations with many CRM and ATS systems and a documented API, but customers need to contact it to check support for a particular system. There is no stated limit on request volume. Requests come from the company’s central email address, not the customer’s own. The company says the portal complies with UK GDPR and lists hosting certifications including ISO 27001, ISO 27017, ISO 27018, SOC 1, SOC 2 and SOC 3. Plans start at £40/user/mo, with a free two-week trial and free setup.