Referencing

All reference projects begin with written authorization from the community college for Pauly Group to act on behalf of the school, as well as written permission from the candidates to conduct reference interviews.

The Pauly Group president contacts each candidate to review the packet of forms, fully discuss the referencing process, and answer any questions. In addition, the group president conducts an informal interview with each candidate.

It should be noted that candidates have the right to opt out of the reference process, modify the release s/he signs, or limit the list of references. Any requests by the candidate must be honored by the Pauly Group. The college is notified of the requests and Pauly Group proceeds as desired by the college and the candidate.

Reference Questions

For each position referenced, a list of questions is developed for college approval. Toward the beginning of the project, the Pauly Group president develops a list of nearly 20 reference questions. Some are specific to the college and the position, but others are questions that have been created to draw out information about candidates who might pose detrimental consequences to the college if selected. Once developed, the college contact and/or search committee is asked to review the questions and recommend changes.

Reference Calls

The candidate file is assigned to a consultant who reviews the position profile, and the set of interview questions which have been approved by the college and/or search leaders. In-depth interviews are conducted with listed and unlisted sources, and a thorough report is prepared for the college.

Pauly Group is responsible for completing the referencing of the candidates in a timely manner. Any subsequent reference work, should it be necessary or requested, is normally handled by the reference consultant who initially referenced the candidate.

Reference Reports

For Semifinal Candidates, the group consultant conducts thorough telephone interviews with three to four listed references for each semifinal candidate, and prepares a report that contains quotes from sources in response to each of the reference interview questions.

For final candidates, eight to 10 telephone interviews are conducted with listed and unlisted references and a comprehensive report is prepared. The Pauly Group consultant contacts both listed and unlisted academic and community leaders throughout the country who have firsthand knowledge of the candidate's professional history.

The Final Candidate Reference Report, like the semifinalist version, includes first-person, non-attributed direct responses to the interview questions. The report is forwarded to the college without suggestions, recommendations, or summaries. Pauly Group is able to provide as much candidate background information as possible. While Pauly Group supports the college community, we respect the right of each college to make their own decisions.

Additional Background Services

Pauly Group has the capacity to facilitate personal credit and criminal background checks. Access to credit bureau and criminal files require a special regulatory license as well as professional investigative skills. Therefore, Pauly Group works closely with a national investigative firm with the appropriate credentials and necessary licenses to access local, regional, state, and federal law enforcement and credit data bases.