To the OP and for the benefit or comfort of those gentlemen that are squeamish about being screened.
For most ladies it is an uncomfortable if not tedium process. We enjoy it no more than you do and sometimes less.
As I screen multiple ways I will stick to the references screening tactic as I believe that was the target question.
When I receive references, I usually request 3 or more, I first research the ladies given to me in length. If the lady or ladies in question are not well known and reviewed (or have a p411) I do not accept them as a reference and thus never contact them.
I avoid at all costs backpage references and "spa" references. In fact I do not accept agency references either.
Assuming the ladies in question are well known I request a broad spec of information that NEVER inquires about their personal life or BCD activities. I focus on personality, punctuality, respect and overall did she feel comfortable around the gentleman. Any other information provided by the reference is not solicited.
I do keep notes on gentlemen I intend to or continue to see regularly. Otherwise I have a simple (and coded) documentation of having seen the gentleman. If it was a uncomfortable or unpleasant experience I maintain an X next to the basic information (handle or last 4 digits of the phone number or pet name they acquired during our date) If it was pleasant or enjoyable I mark with a checkmark.
When I am contacted for a reference I keep it simple and refer to my information on hand. "Yes I saw him. I see no notes about him being rude disrespectful or otherwise unpleasant. This is the date I saw him xx-xx-xxxx I hope this information was useful. Have fun and be safe" ect. IF he is a close client I may add a few tidbits such as "his favorite wine is xxxxx He does not like xxxx perfume, He really detests smoking during the date, His favorite color was xxxx and he liked the thigh highs I was wearing"
No matter what information I have been provided for screening or during our date I NEVER keep detailed records of things that do not need to be kept. Nor do I keep any personal information of any client at any time. My laptop is regularly cleaned and wiped, my phone is regularly cleaned wiped AND changed out. My email is also regularly wiped. Everything I know about pre-existing and existing clientele is in my memory alone. which at best is faulty and at worst a complete maze.