Your telephone and in-person interviews went well. You are one of the top candidates for the job, but your references need to be checked first—and they can make or break your chances for getting hired. So, how do you decide which references are best to help you get the job you want?
Deciding Which References to Use
Meaningful references come from people who can verify your work experience and qualifications. Choose people who can discuss your skills and experience that are related to the job you’re applying for. Whatever you do, please don’t use your family or neighbors as references. (I've seen candidates try to use their mom as a reference - it was like an episode of The Goldbergs).
Employers
Former managers or supervisors know your experience, work style and work ethic. They can answer specific questions about your qualifications for the job and how you interact with management, co-workers or employees whom you manage.Asking for a reference from a current employer may feel awkward.We get it.You don’t exactly want to let your current employer know you are looking.So, use a colleague instead!
Colleagues
Sometimes colleagues have an insider’s view of the details of your skills. A colleague will more likely remember specific projects you worked on together and that relate to your potential new job. Colleagues can also answer questions about how well you work with others on a team.
Business Acquaintances
Business acquaintances, inside or outside of the companies you’ve worked for, can provide insight on your work ethic, professionalism and responsiveness. Valuable information about your project management skills can also come from this source.
Clients/Vendors
If you are seeking a position that involves customer service or if you ever worked with a vendor, current or previous clients and vendors can provide a good reference. Clients and vendors remember if you are honest, reliable, prompt and professional.
Volunteer Organizations
Your volunteer experience can be included on your résumé as work experience. Supervisors or volunteer work leaders can be used as references.
Before You Submit Your References
- Ask each person if they are willing to provide a reference for you.
- Let your references know what job you’re applying for and why you think they can provide relevant feedback about your skills and experience.
- Verify the contact information for your references.
Don’t forget to follow up with your references afterwards!Thank them for their time and they will be more likely to agree to be your reference again in the future.
About the Author: Trish Elliott was named 2015 Woman of Influence by LA Biz Journal and received special recognition of Women in Leadership by the State of California Senate and California Assembly in 2017.She is currently an HR Executive in Orange County, California.
