BERMAN LARSON KANE
Career Report
June 2014 Issue # 172
Feature Story
ADVICE FOR GETTING JOB REFERENCES
At some point during your job search, a potential employer will request references. Typically, it will be when the company is seriously interested in you as a potential hire. According to an article from About.com, it’s important to plan ahead and get your references in order before you need them. Keep in mind that good references can help you clinch a job offer, so be sure to have a strong list of references who are willing to attest to your capabilities.
Clearly, it’s important to be prepared to provide a list of employment references who can attest to the skills and qualifications that you have for the job you are applying for. Here from the article are some insights and guidance on the topic for jobseekers to consider:
How to Ask for a Reference
Do not use someone for a reference unless you have his or her permission. You need to be sure that you are asking the appropriate people to write a letter of reference or to give you a verbal reference. You also need to know what the reference giver is going to say about you. The best way to approach this is to ask the reference writer if they would mind if you used them as a reference. Then review the type of positions you are applying for with the reference giver, so they can tailor their comments to fit your circumstances.
Who to Ask for a Reference
Former bosses, co-workers, customers, vendors, and colleagues all make good professional references. So do college professors. If you’re just starting out in the workforce or if you haven’t worked in a while you can use character or personal references from people who know your skills and attributes.
Company Reference Policy
Be aware that some employers will not provide references, the article pointed out. Due to concerns about litigation, they will only provide job title, dates of employment, and salary history. If that’s the case, be creative and try to find alternative reference writers who are willing to speak to your qualifications.
Make a Reference List
Create a document listing your references. The list of references should not be included in your résumé. Rather, create a separate reference list on the same paper you used for your résumé. Have it ready to give to employers when you interview. Include three or four references, along with their job title, employer, and contact information. If the employer asks you to email your references, paste the list into the body of any email letter, rather than sending an attachment.
Paper vs. Personal References
Many employers won’t be interested in paper reference letters, though it’s still a good idea to have some, especially if you’re graduating from college, relocating, or the company you work for is going out of business. Instead, they will want to speak to your references so they can ask specific questions about your background to find out what type of employee you were and why you might be qualified for the job they are hiring for.
Request a Reference Letter
Every time you change employment, make a point of asking for a reference from your supervisor or a co-worker, the article pointed out. That way, you can create a file of recommendations from people you may not necessarily be able to track down years later.
Keep Your References Up-to-Date
Let your references know where your job search stands. Tell them who might be calling for a reference. When you get a new job, don’t forget to send a thank you note to those who provided you with a reference.
Maintain Your Network
Maintaining your reference network with periodic phone calls or notes to get and give updates is important. LinkedIn is considered an ideal way to keep your network up-to-date online. Have an active network in place because you never know when you might need it.
Requesting Permission
A prospective employer should ask your permission before contacting your references, the article noted. This is especially important if you are employed — you don’t want to surprise your current employer with a phone call checking your references. It’s perfectly acceptable to say that you are not comfortable with your current employer being contacted at the present time. However, always be sure you have a list of alternative references available.
News from BLK
Bob Larson, CPC, President of Berman Larson Kane, will facilitate “Recruiter’s Night Out” for the MIS Networking Group at the Little Ferry Holiday Inn on Route 46 on the evening of Tuesday, June 24th. If you are interested in attending, contact John Sampson at jcsspike@yahoo.com . “ I so enjoy the energy of these professionals always bringing bleeding edge job search tips and challenges with innovative/ or complicated job search situations” said Bob Larson, CPC