Conduct useful reference calls

Selection principle

Ask references about observable work and context, not whether they generally liked the consultant.

The shortlist is credible on paper and the team needs direct evidence about delivery, communication, change, and handoff.

Use it in the selection process

Start with these decisions

1. Confirm the reference's role, project period, scope, and relationship to the consultant.
2. Ask what changed after work began and how the consultant handled it.
3. Ask what the nonprofit had to contribute for the engagement to work.
4. Ask what they would structure differently and whether ownership transferred cleanly.

Pause point

Do not let an impressive proposal replace accountable nonprofit judgment

Use contact information supplied for this purpose and follow your organization's procurement and privacy rules. A reference's context may differ materially from yours.