Do You know what Your References will say about You?
Don’t fall prey to one of the biggest mistakes a job seeker can make ~ listing your former employers, supervisors, or professors as references without asking them first!
This simple step can save you from the embarrassment of a less-than-stellar recommendation and give your references a most welcome heads up.
In fact, this common courtesy can greatly increase your chances of getting the job.
Your references will have had the opportunity to gather their thoughts beforehand and will not be caught off guard ~ giving you the best chance of your references working for you instead of against you.When references are contacted unaware, they often stumble. Dates and titles elude them. Specific projects you may have worked on or tasks you lead are unmentioned. This can lead to an unimpressive reference report.
So what can you do to avoid this pitfall?
Before giving your potential new employer your reference list, follow these 7 steps:
- Make a List
Think of this as your first draft and just write down anyone who comes to mind.
- Check it Twice
Be sure to choose people who will be able to clearly express your talents and accomplishments and who know your character. The important thing is to make sure they will show you in a good light.
Recruiters are especially interested in hearing from people who observed your performance regularly, with recent references first on the list. Make sure whoever you list can share real examples of your work ethic, specific skills, and any assets you brought to the organization.
If you are a recent graduate, or have a limited work history, listing your former Professors or Advisors can be helpful.In this case, be sure you list those who taught courses where you were active and excelled.
You can also list managers or supervisors for any summer positions or internships you held. Just be sure they meet the criteria listed above and will speak well of you.
- Spread the Word
What is important here is that you ask politely and allow them an out. Sometimes people may not be comfortable giving references or feel they do not have the time.
Either way, if they are at all reluctant, then it is best to move on and ask someone else on your list. You only want people who are eager to help you in your new job search. After all, you want them to help you shine!
- Fill In the Details
Anything you can do to help them prepare, the better. That can even mean supplying them with a copy of your resume to refresh their memory. Most references will be happy for the help.
- Do a Double Check
The key here is to make it as easy as possible for your potential new employer, or the background check company they hire, to reach your references. Causing delays by giving them incorrect information will put you in a bad light ~ and if they use a screening company, this will definitely get back to them (believe me!).
- The Final Draft
You may even want to include a short description of your working relationship, whether they were your direct supervisor, department head, etc.
- A Thank You Goes a Long Way
And you never know when you may have the opportunity to work together again in the future!
While not all potential employers will ask for a list of references, if you follow these tips you will be ready if they do! You can find more job seeking tips in "Tips to Get Your Resume Background Check Ready", and
Why You Should Run a Background Check on Yourself. Each are designed to help you put your best foot forward and get the job you want! Good Luck!
Authored by
Looking for a Job? Check out our Applicant Services. Here you will find information on how API can help You get Hired!
We also invite you to Visit Our Blog
for more articles about hiring and background checks.
We also invite you to Visit Our Blog
for more articles about hiring and background checks.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Thanks for visiting our website. Contact Us! We can answer your questions and offer you a consultation on how we can help You with your Hiring, Business, and Security Needs!
We also invite you to Subscribe. Just leave your email and you will get one new article each month with tips and information focused on You and Your Business!