Our references are ‘live’ testimonials to our work performance.
Our references are ‘live’ testimonials to our work performance.
As consumers we want to know that the product we are buying is good quality and has a fine reputation. If the purchase is large, like an automobile, knowing the reputation of the dealer takes on even greater importance. When employers make a “purchase”, especially one as important as a new employee, information often makes the difference between a good and a bad hiring decision.
You may hear that employers place little stock in professional references. After all, what applicant provides a “bad” reference? The truth is most employers still value references, so it makes sense to prepare a current, “user friendly” list and have it ready to go as you pursue your job search. Here are some guidelines to follow when compiling your professional references.
Whenever possible, select a management person you reported to. This carries greater weight and relevance since most employers value the insights of professionals who know how you did your job. It also helps the hiring manager determine not only your performance but whether you will fit the new job and corporate culture.
Some supervisors may decline to be your reference because company policy precludes their giving out information, and requests must be channeled through Human Resources. While this may be true, often hiring managers are allowed to give “personal” references in which they speak for themselves and not for the company. So, bottom line, ask. Most managers will try to be helpful if at all possible and references from supervision are still the most compelling.
You may also use people you worked for indirectly, group leaders or project managers, for example. “Internal customers” like managers from other departments who benefited from your work are often happy to speak on your behalf. Happy customers make strong references.
Steps to make a list of references:
- Try to create a list of several solid references.
- Selecting three to five from that list that are most relevant, saving the rest for other positions.
- Prepare a Professional Reference sheet separate from your resume and provide it only when the employer asks.
- List the person’s name, current business title, their current employer, and contact information. Remember to indicate their relationship with you, how you know them, where you worked with them, etc.
- Give your references a heads-up call or e-mail when you pass their name to a company, so they can expect the contact.
Remember to update your reference list periodically. It can save you the embarrassment of having a prospective employer find they cannot reach a reference or, even worse, the party is no longer alive! It happens.
The insights one can obtain from references are valuable and provide a piece to the “puzzle” as employers decide whom to hire. So prepare your list carefully, keep it current, and it will increase your “value” for that serious opportunity and potential employer.