Why References Are So Valuable on the Job Hunt

Posted by in Career Advice


Good job references can make the difference between landing your dream job or having to continue your frustrating search for employment. With so many job applicants talking up their own skills and experiences, employers rely on references to see whether the claims you make are really accurate.

Getting good job references from previous employers or teachers is an essential part of the job search process that should never be overlooked. According to Jeff Shane, executive vice president of reference checking company Allison and Taylor, job references give prospective employers a candid glimpse into what each candidate is really like.

According to Shane, job references play a very important role in determining which candidate to hire. He argues that many employers are faced with "numerous good, qualified candidates" for each advertised position, and checking references is a good way to narrow the field of possible candidates. Candidates whose references back up their own descriptions of themselves are generally looked on more favorably, whereas those whose references are less positive may find their resumes being fast-tracked onto the discard pile.

With this fact in mind, it's important to ensure that your references paint a positive picture of your professional skills and abilities. Rather than simply listing your former boss or HR manager's contact details at the bottom of your resume, take the time to think carefully about how this person is likely to speak about you to a potential employer. If there is any chance that a reference will say something negative about you, then you might want to consider choosing someone else.

According to Al Coleman, who authored a popular career development guide for young professionals called Secrets to Success, the best job references come from people who have had the chance to get to know you and your skills. Your supervisor from your last job is a good choice. If you are a new graduate, then a professor could be the best person to give you a glowing reference. However, avoid using friends or family members as references, even if you have worked with them professionally, as employers are less likely to accept their testimonies as accurate.

Once you have chosen the people who you want to provide references for you, get in touch with them, let them know you're seeking employment, and ask if it's okay to give their contact details to prospective employers during your job search. Letting people know that they could be called on to provide a reference allows them to plan what they are going to say about you, and prevents any feelings of annoyance if they are contacted out of the blue.

Having positive job references is crucial to landing the role you want. Choose your references carefully, check that they can provide references for you and always thank them for their help, whether or not you landed the role.

(Photo courtesy of David Castillo Dominici at FreeDigitalPhotos.net)


 

Comment

Become a member to take advantage of more features, like commenting and voting.

  • Joan M.
    Joan M.

    True

  • Gurudeva K.
    Gurudeva K.

    Sometimes it is difficult to get the reference contact details or communication when worked internationally. They may have moved to difference companies or we may not have the contact info. What do suggest about that

Jobs to Watch