Op here. Thank you for the replies!! No word yet but we all know federal hiring processes tend to move slow. I am hopeful but don’t necessarily think I’ve got it, since I could be one of two final candidates or even one of three.

Thanks again for being excited for me!!!!!!

Anonymous wrote:Checking references is a PITA. I've never done it unless I was looking to hire the person.

This

Anonymous wrote:Op, don't they usually make an offer then check references? I'm surprised by this!

No. I got the offer only after my references were called.

Checking references is a PITA. I've never done it unless I was looking to hire the person.

I think it's a very good sign. You're definetely in the running.

Op, don't they usually make an offer then check references? I'm surprised by this!

Federal manager here— I check references on the top two candidates. This is a great sign for you!

I almost always only check references on the top choice. It would have to be a very unique situation for me to want to check two. This is both because I usually know who I want and so the references are just a final gut check, and also because I know it gets peoples expectations up and I try to be considerate of that. In the one case I can remember checking multi, I think I told candidates up front.

Good luck!

Anonymous wrote:I Only check references for my top candidates.

Op here. So you only check the top candidate, or you check the top two?

Gosh I am just really over the moon and did not expect this to happen.

I Only check references for my top candidates.

It’s a very good sign. Hope it works out for you!

I only check one persons references.

It's a good sign.

Congratulations!

This is really and truly my dream job. How hopeful can I be about an offer? I interviewed last week. I know that nothing is guaranteed, and no one can be certain. But historically, whenever my references have been checked, an offer followed.

Speculate with me please....how often do they check references for more than the number one candidate? I think this means I'm in the top 3 at least, but unsure if I am the top candidate.