Reference Checks

Along with background checks, due diligence in finding a good match includes interviewing the references provided.

• For recommended questions for those applying for ministerial positions, see Checking References: A Guide for Search Teams
• See also Reference Checks for Staff (Other Than Ministers) This resource can be adapted for sensitive volunteer roles.

Code of Professional Ethics

For professional positions, include a requirement (and adequate professional expenses) to join their professional organization and abide by its code of ethics.

• for ministers, the UUMA Code of Professional Practice
• for religious educators, the LREDA Code of Professional Practice
• for church musicians, the UU Music Ministries Code of Professional Practice (PDF)
• for church administrators, the Association of UU Administrators Code of Professional Practice
• for membership professionals, the UU Association of Membership Professionals Code Of Ethics (PDF)

Sensitive Volunteer Roles

Some volunteer positions require high ethical standards (backed up by solid safety policies that remove temptation). Along with background checks, you may want to ask for additional requirements.

Work and Education History

Leaders may want to verify the volunteer’s relevant employment and educational history to ensure they have the experience needed for the role.

Vehicle Operation Requirements

Where the volunteer position entails the use of a motor vehicle to drive individuals affiliated with the institution on field trips or to doctors’ offices, only accept for service persons who have a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance and who pledge to notify the institution of any license suspension or revocation, conviction for moving violation, or other restriction on driving.

Handling of Personnel Records

All transcripts, letters, e-mail messages, and other documents received, and all notes of conversations conducted as a part of the reference check are retained as part of the person’s personnel record if employed or accepted for service. This file should be kept in a secure location, for example a locked file cabinet accessible only by the board chair and others as authorized by the Board of Trustees.

Documents received in connection with persons who are not employed or accepted for service should NOT be retained except as mandated by law and should be destroyed.