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If a job candidate
is far enough in the interview process that the human resources professional is
ready to ask for references, the candidate is close to being offered the job.
For that reason, the references are crucial and have a significant impact on the
final hiring decision. Any company that is going to hire you should ask for
references, so be ready to give them at least three solid
ones.
Choose
references who will portray you favorably
When asking people to serve as
a reference, choose people who are unquestionably ready to offer a glowing
report. If you won't be using them immediately, you should chose people that you
would naturally keep in contact with as you move along in your professional
life.
You want people who
have known you for a long time, and who can relay information about your
proficiency, skill sets, attitudes, and behaviors. These would naturally be
people you respect and care to keep in your network, so they will remain
informed about the progression of your career or a trend in your working life.
For example, if
they have seen the product of your most recent work, they can relay how you've
built upon the skills you learned working together. Or if you have been working
long hours with extraordinary endurance, they would be able to elaborate on your
dedication.
If you need
"professional references," consider the following.
- First, consider
mentors, bosses, or coworkers who have had authority over you.
- Extend the list to
include any authority figure - professor, coach, counselor, etc.
- Exclude family and
friends from being references, as they aren't completely educated about your
working habits.
The basic
elements of every reference
When asked for a
list of references, make it as concise as possible. Include only what is
necessary: name, professional title, and telephone number.
The etiquette of
establishing references
When to ask. If you
are thinking about leaving a job, ask for references before you leave. If you
can help it, don't ask after you've already left. Not only is it easier to get
someone to be a reference that way, but it's also better business
etiquette.
How to ask.
Say something along the lines of, "In the event that I need a reference to speak
about my work abilities, would you feel comfortable enough, knowing my
background, to offer a positive recommendation?" The main idea is to get a
glowing report. While you might think a well-rounded picture is more
informative, it is not necessarily the best one to portray.
If there is any
hesitation in your potential reference's response, don't use that person. Any
apprehension might translate into a less-than-perfect report. Since you're
looking for this discussion to propel you through the final phase and into the
new company, hesitation is the last thing you need.
If the person is a
solid mentor, you might also consider discussing what type of position you are
looking for, or what you hope your new position will bring. Asking for advice is
another opportunity to educate your references about your goals and engage them
in your efforts.
How to
communicate with your references
To maintain a polite
communication with your references, do all their work for them, as
follows.
- Deliver your
updated resume to them and tell about the job: why you're good, challenges and
goals of the company, and how you fit.
- Give them warning
if you anticipate a potential employer might contact them (i.e., if you are
asked for references).
- Tell them about
the position you applied for. Detail the challenges the position might bring to
you, and how you feel you can fulfill any expectations.
- Outline why you
are the best possible candidate for the job.
- Ask them to tell
you when they've spoken with the person, as a courtesy.
Trends in
reference checking: what to expect from HR managers
Almost every HR manager asks
for references when seriously considering someone as a potential hire. For
liability reasons, if for no other, they will call each one, assuming you've
given them a realistic number.
What you've
portrayed in your interview will narrow what they ask your references. HR
managers are looking for inconsistencies between what you've told them and what
your references say. In that way, you and your references will validate each
other.
In their
conversations with your references, the HR professionals will ask questions
concerning your work habits, including the following.
- whether you're
consistently late,
- the nature of your
interactions with coworkers,
- your attitude,
- your competency,
and
- your weaknesses.
- Erisa Ojimba, Certified Compensation
Professional
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