Tempesta & Associates, Inc. - Selecting and Preparing Your References

Selecting and Preparing Your References

written by: Kathy Bornheimer

Many people who are job seekers or who are advancing their careers tend not to specifically select or thoroughly prepare their references A hasty, unprepared reference can actually cost you that job rather than solidify your chances.

Even if you're not actively interviewing for a new or better job gather these contacts. It's actually more critical to choose these people carefully when you're employed because of the confidential nature. Make sure that they have full understanding of the trust you have in them.

Most well run companies are completing references and are skilled in asking the right questions or asking questions that will get the most information out of that person providing the reference.

The basic guidelines for selecting good references are ...

Select 5 people who can testify to your skills observable behaviors and/or communication style. Most companies conduct three references; since they want to complete them quickly have your backup selections in case someone's not available. Provide all of your references with your resume so they have accurate information about you and the same reference point the interviewer has.
Ask permission ! A surprised or unknowing reference can be a disaster. Make sure that they can and will provide good, accurate information about you. When they've ; agreed " test the waters". Find out what they'll actually say about you. Simply ask "What would you tell a prospective employer about me ?" " What do you feel are my strengths ?" " Where could I improve?" Listen to what they say. If they're forgetting some key areas ; remind them : "Remember when..." , " What about the time we ...". Be aware of their communication skills. If they are ineffective re-consider them as a choice since it can detract from the quality of their information.
Provide a list of your references to the perspective employers when requested. The list should include : their name, title, place of employment, your relationship and length of that relationship. Also include the telephone number that the individual prefers to be contacted. Some people will be more comfortable providing the information at home rather than at work.

Do not have this information on your resume but rather on a separate paper.

Prepare your references. When the company that you are interviewing with lets you know that they'll be contacting your references call everyone on your list. Let them know who will be contacting them by name and/or title( if you know), the name of the company what position you're being considered for and any details about the job or company that will help them provide the best information.
Follow up to make sure that they've been contacted and get their feedback. The comments made to them and the directions of the questions could be valuable and indicate your standing as a viable selection for that job.
For those employed references can be more challenging. It is almost impossible to use your current supervisor. You don't want to draw attention to the fact that you want to leave. Exceptions would include you are being downsized or if you're using each other as references so confidentiality is mutual.
Start getting your sources now. With mergers , acquisitions and layoffs you may lose track of some very important people.
Consider people who you're currently working with and who can attest to your skills and abilities. These can be co-workers, customers, people from other departments or even suppliers/vendors. Anyone who is directly impacted or sees how well you do your job.
If you're active in professional associations or civic/volunteer groups tap these connections. Remember if you've been in committees, held office or been involved in projects you have additional resources. These people can answer the same questions as an employment related reference and they'll have no conflict of interest.
An aspect of references that has been underutilized is using these people as an initial networking source. If they know you well enough to provide a reference they would be a valuable resource for helping you get contacts. As in any networking scenario be specific and let them know your purpose. Meet with them away from the work environment to discuss details. Provide them with two resumes (one to assist when they're contacted for the reference and one to pass along). Be clear as to what types of positions you're interested in and why, which organizations / industries you're targeting and if they have any suggestions for you.
Send " Thank You " notes to all of the people who have agreed to be your reference. When you get the job you want show you're appreciation; a plant , gift certificate, etc. When you obtain your new business cards send them to all of these people to keep them updated.
Maintain an ongoing relationship with these individuals. You never know when you'll need each other in the future.

Tempesta & Associates, Inc.
6525 North Green Bay Road
Milwaukee, WI 53209

414-967-9250