Killer References

All too often, job candidates are so focused on searching  job boards, networking, updating resumes, researching companies, and preparing for interviews that “references” are often overlooked. Some may argue that background checks are ritualistic or pro forma steps in the hiring process. Never underestimate the power of a reference. Given the hiring investment and company’s mission to have the right employees in place, employers, more than ever, are conducting extensive background checks at all levels. Good references can be the deciding factor in your getting the job. One bad or mediocre reference could cost you the job. 

A reference listing should include four informational topics: 

• Contact data: complete, up to date, and the preferred contact method.
• Reference background information: a brief paragraph to help the employer understand who they will be talking to.
• Relationship to the reference: a brief paragraph as to your professional relationship and relevance to the position you have applied for.
• Ongoing contact: a brief synopsis of the ongoing contact with the reference since last working together.  

Never incorporate your reference list as part of your resume, and only provide references when requested by a potential employer.  

Social media references and letters of recommendation are meaningless at this stage of the hiring process. Typically, both can be construed as stemming from mutual admiration circumstances with little to no credibility. Hiring Managers want to communicate directly with your references and discuss your qualifications.

Choose references carefully: Ideally you should have three to five professional references stemming from previous management or supervisors, colleagues, and customers whom you worked closely with in the past. They should be familiar with and able to speak specifically about and validate your accomplishments, work ethic, professionalism, skills, education, performance, etc. Personal references, (family, friends, association and community members), can be used for first time job seekers. 

Get permission to use someone as a reference: Some people might elect to decline your request for whatever reason. There should be no surprises for you or the potential employer.

Coach your references and keep them up to date: Insure your reference has a current resume; knows that a potential employer may be calling about a specific position; has been briefed on the company; and aware of interview talk points and highlights. Provide sufficient information to minimize adhoc misunderstandings.

Follow-up with your reference after he or she has spoken to the potential employer. In addition to thanking the reference, you might gain additional insight as to the hiring manager’s thoughts on your candidacy, or red flags that might need to be addressed or re-visited with the hiring manager.

Remember, Killer References can secure a job offer, or be the disastrous end to a hard fought campaign.