Hiring and landlords

Whenever you hire someone be cautious if you speak to their current employer as a reference. If the candidate is a non-performer chances are that the current employer dislikes him/her and is likely to get rid of the person. Consequently, the reference would be good to expedite the transition out of the company. Therefore don't only ask the current employer but the one before (!) the current position. That employer is much more likely to give you the unbiased truth. Same holds true for renters that want to move into one of your properties. Don't stick to checking their current landlord. If they are messies chances are that their current landlord wants to get rid of them and is giving you a great reference for them.