Get a Good Reference

The Right References Can Secure a Solid Job Offer

Aug 21, 2009 Anthony Vultaggio

Having the right personal and professional references can be the difference between a new job and the same old miserable position. Learn how to leverage references.

Most job-seekers put a great deal of thought into resumes, cover letters and interview questions. However, very few pay much attention to their reference list. When potential employers request this vital piece of data, most scramble through phone contact lists in an attempt to list one or two people who they expect will have good things to say.

Choosing the "right" people to be references is a very important part of any job search. While a small percentage of employers will conduct a detailed background search, almost all will contact at least one or two references.

Are References Important?

Never underestimate the importance of good references. Companies make a large investment in employees. They want some assurance that a person is who they claim to be. Having strong references can be the tipping point in getting a job offer. On the flip side, having one bad, or even moderate reference has been known to cost people a job offer.

Listing references on a resume is a no-no. Create a secondary sheet and title it "References". When asked for this magic list, offer the employer the list.

Letters of Recommendation Don't Count

Forgery is too easy. Employers don't trust letters of recommendation simply because they are too easy to modify. Employers want and need to speak to living people. They want to hear someone speak about strengths and weakness.

Consider Reference Choices Carefully

Knowing the type of reference in advance makes it easier to select the names to include. In general, professional references are preferred to personal references because they have a higher degree of credibility. Friends would probably say anything to help a friend, but a professional is far more likely to share the real story.

Work on developing a list of three to five people who can speak directly about accomplishments, work ethic, skills, performance, etc. Previous supervisors are the best references; colleagues, past clients and mentors can also be selected.

Always Seek Permission From Reference Candidates

Never list someone as a reference without first clearing it with him. Be sure to ask which number and email address the reference prefers to have listed. While most people find it flattering to be asked, a small percentage of people will say no. Don't take this personally. They probably wouldn't have made a good reference if they had agreed.

Also be sure to keep references informed. Provide them with a copy of the current resume and/or a bulleted list of skills and accomplishments so that they are current on their understanding of the candidate's strengths. If there is any uncertainty about what a reference will say, consider hiring a reference company. These companies charge a fee to screen references so that there are no surprises.

Thank References for Their Help

This should go without saying, but it's too important not to mention. If someone takes the time to provide a professional or personal reference, send them a note of thanks.

Solid references can be the difference from a polite no-thank you note and a job offer. Take care when selecting references and always seek permission before offering a name and phone number to a prospective employer. Whenever possible try to use professional references; their input has more credibility than personal references because of the nature of the relationship.

The copyright of the article Get a Good Reference in Career Advice is owned by Anthony Vultaggio. Permission to republish Get a Good Reference in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Having Stellar References Sets You Apart

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