Do employers check references?

Esmeralda Pigram: It really depends on what type of job you are applying for. If you are looking at jobs at the fast food/retail level, it's possible they won't even call references. Yes, they will ask how the person knows you.They will not background check the references, but it's easy to pick up on a liar because it's hard to make sure everything you said in the interview matches up with what they will say over the phone.If you are a teenager, go ahead and use your uncle and sister.. but if you are over 20, it's time to use some professional or academic references. Good ideas to use are: former coworkers, former managers, teachers, principles, coaches, teammates, guideance consolers/advisors, youth group/pastors, etc....Show more