Asked for references

For what it's worth, I went through the same thing. Went through the superday, got asked to provide references a day or two later, offer a couple days after that. I would think you're at least in consideration for an offer if they're still asking for references after a superday.

agree with the above post. i don't think they ask you for references if they weren't seriously considering offering you a job

I was put in a similar boat. They did tell me that they won't contact them until an offer is given and then with only your explicit permission. Try to clear that up with them if you can.

After

Mine checked before... Actually before the second round interview.

Are you asking about references in the context of considering your candidacy, or as in a background check?

If the former, youngmonkey's right, if they do check it will be before the interview.

I'd assumed you meant the latter, which would happen after you've signed the offer.

Well if you submit references that they said they needed before your final round interview. So i guess that would be for more background check?

For clarification, would they call up your references before an offer, or while you are still in the interview process?

well the company ur interviewing with will want to verify that u worked for them when u said u did.

if the firm is seriously considering you, they'll probably call a contact you may have worked with for a recommendation

They will find someone to call on your behalf. Or, they may offer you the job, and call when you are there already.

A typical reference call that I have received goes -- tell me about aaaaa, is there any reason I should not hire aaaaa, how did aaaa get along with teamworkers, and what should aaaaaa improve on? ..... I hope this helps.

Yes they'll call the contact and ask about me.

Problem is it's company policy (of the firm I had worked with before that they're contacting) not to reveal anything other than name and dates of employment.

I'm guessing the current company I'm interviewing at would want more than that, otherwise how would they narrow down to one candidate based on that?

I am trying to tell you that in spite of the limited discussion policy, hiring companies do find information out about you, they may call a client, or may call a colleague who doesn't follow policy - I have seen this happen.