Reference Checks

How AI Reference Calls Work

Understand the AI-powered interview process, call status tracking, and how to access recordings and transcripts.

The AI Interview Process

Once a reference provides their information and consent, Reffem's AI initiates a phone call to conduct the reference interview. Here's what happens:

1

Initial Contact

The reference receives an SMS notification that a reference call is coming. They can accept the call at their convenience, any time of day.

2

AI Introduction

The AI introduces itself, confirms the reference's identity, and reminds them that the call will be recorded. It explains the purpose and expected duration.

3

Conversational Interview

The AI asks the prepared reference questions, listens to responses, and asks intelligent follow-up questions based on what the reference says. This creates a natural, conversational flow.

4

Processing & Analysis

After the call, the recording is transcribed and analyzed by AI to extract key insights, skill assessments, and notable quotes.

Adaptive Questioning

Unlike rigid surveys, Reffem's AI adapts in real-time. If a reference gives a vague answer, the AI will probe deeper. If they mention something interesting, it will ask follow-up questions to learn more.

Understanding Call Status

Track the progress of each reference check through these status stages:

Pending

Link sent to candidate, awaiting reference submission

References Submitted

Candidate has submitted their references, calls being scheduled

In Progress

AI calls are being conducted, some references may have completed

Completed

All reference calls completed, report is ready for review

Failed

Call could not be completed (reference unavailable, technical issue)

Call Duration and Timing

Typical Duration

Most reference calls last 8-15 minutes, depending on how detailed the reference's responses are and how many follow-up questions are asked.

Retry Logic

If a reference doesn't answer, the AI will retry at different times. You can also manually trigger a retry from the dashboard.

Recordings and Transcripts

Every reference call is recorded and transcribed automatically. This ensures complete transparency and allows you to verify the AI's analysis.

Audio Recordings

Listen to the full conversation in the in-app audio player. You can also download recordings as MP3 files to share with colleagues or archive.

Play directly in browser or download

Full Transcripts

Read the complete word-for-word transcript of each call. Transcripts are synchronized with timestamps so you can jump to specific moments in the recording.

Searchable and timestamped

Data Retention

Recordings and transcripts are stored securely and retained according to your organization's settings and applicable regulations. Typically 1-3 years for compliance purposes.

Consent and Compliance

Reffem handles consent collection and compliance automatically:

SMS Consent

References opt-in to receive text messages before any contact

Call Recording Consent

Explicit consent collected before recording begins

AI Disclosure

References are clearly informed they are speaking with an AI

Opt-Out Support

References can opt-out at any time via SMS or during the call

Next Steps