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Almost nobody thinks about their job references until asked. Far too often an afterthought, references play an important role in the application process, are a critical part of any job search portfolio, and can be an influential factor when under consideration for a job offer.
For an employer, each hire is a risk. A lot of time and effort go into filling an open position but there is never a guarantee the right person has been recruited until the new hire is actually working at the company each day. If a recruiter and/or hiring manager can speak to someone who has had a professional relationship with a candidate, he or she can mitigate some of that risk.
When a recruiter or hiring manager likes a candidate, a good reference can bolster their case and, perhaps, carry the candidate over the finish line. References are more than a good speech on your behalf. A good reference has portability. During the course of a job search, a strong set of references can open doors on its own.
There are two types of references – personal and professional. Between the two, it’s no contest. Professional references carry a lot more weight, however some job applications request personal ones as well. Behind the scenes, it’s the professional references that count. That doesn’t mean there aren’t specific cases a personal reference helps. There are, but it’s the exception not the rule.
Here are some recommendations to help you master the fine art of collecting references:
#1 – Line up at least three professional references before you need them – multiple individuals from various points in your recent career can give an employer a robust perspective into you and your work habits. If you wish to include a personal reference in your arsenal, one will suffice (especially if it’s a heavy hitter in the company you’re applying to).
#2 – References do not necessarily need to be from individuals with whom you currently work or from someone who works for your current company. Even if you and your references are now at different companies, they can still provide input upon your time together. That said, professional references from your current (or last) position will give you a slightly sharper edge.
#3 – This is important – when you ask a colleague for a professional reference, do not assume he or she will sing your praises. Wise attorneys know not put a witness on the stand unless they know what their testimony will be – same concept here. Know what your reference is going to say about you. When you make the request, have a discussion with them about what you anticipate they would say. When a recruiter or hiring manager calls your reference, you don’t want them to be told, “That person gave me as a reference? Are you kidding me?” (BTW – true story, I once was checking references and had the employee’s former manager unload their displeasure with them). To the greatest extent possible, vet what your references will say about you. Be selective in whom you list.
#4 – When considering who to ask to be a reference, go to your allies. If you have a co-worker with whom you pulled off an amazing project, he or she may be a better reference than your immediate supervisor or the owner of the business. You want references to speak to the quality of your work and how great it is to work with you.
#5 – Consider the form of the reference. Formal written references still exist, but are no considered longer the ideal – especially ones that seem to be only marginally better than a form letter. The best professional reference is vocal. When someone agrees to be a reference, he or she expects they may be called by a recruiter or hiring manager in the future, and a discussion lends itself to a robust conversation about the value you can add to an employer.
Philip Roufail contributed to this article.
Scott Singer is the President and Founder of Insider Career Strategies Resume Writing & Career Coaching, a firm dedicated to guiding job seekers and companies through the job search and hiring process. Insider Career Strategies provides resume writing, LinkedIn profile development, career coaching services, and outplacement services. You can email Scott Singer at scott.singer@insidercs.com, or via the website, www.insidercs.com.
