The Right Referrals
Looking for a job? Thinking about moving on, or up, to an exciting new
opportunity at another company? Along with your experience, knowledge,
talents, background, resume and the job interview itself...there's
something else that can be the deciding factor in helping you get the
position you really want: a good recommendation.
When you look at it logically it makes perfect sense. If someone you've
worked with-especially a person of authority-has something very good to
say about you, it brings greater depth and strength to your
qualifications by adding the credibility of a third party opinion.
Fact is, the process of checking references from previous jobs is
standard procedure among just about every employer who is looking to
hire someone. Therefore, even though federal law does restrict some
reference information, you can be all but certain that if you become a
serious candidate for a position, your references will be investigated.
Below are several tips for helping to make sure that your references are
good ones:
Pick up the phone and contact your references personally. If
you've listed Mr. Jones, who was your boss at another job five years
ago, as a reference...take a few moments to contact him before you begin
your job search. The idea is to ensure that: 1. Mr Jones can still be
reached; and 2; (most important) Mr. Jones still thinks highly of you
and will indeed give you a glowing recommendation.
Double-check your records. Things that are listed on your resume
must correspond with what your references will say about you. Remember
that your prospective new employer will contact your previous employer's
HR department, so it's always a good idea for you to make sure that the
information about you in their files is accurate, complete and in-sync
with your resume.
Be aware of the chain of command. Just because you've listed a Vice
President as your reference from a previous employer, that doesn't mean
the person checking your references will be able to talk to the actual VP.
Instead, their request might be forwarded on to a subordinate, for
instance, a middle manager. Keep this in mind when listing
Say thanks. After you've landed a new job, take time to call and
thank your references. You never know, you might need their good
recommendations again sometime in the future.
Having good references is so important when seeking a new job, here's
whyConsidering a job change and want to give yourself an edge in
the competitive employment market?
People you've worked with might
have some very valuable things to say about you.
