JOB SEARCH PREPARATION
7 Methods to Prepare a Potential Job Reference
While on your job search quest, you will be asked to provide a few references. Don’t just think back to former bosses and stick their name on your application and call it good.
You need to prepare these potential references so their recommendation will be an endorsement of your character and capabilities. With millions of people out of work, you need all the help you can get.
What got me thinking about this was a friend sent me a message on Facebook to say she used me a reference, and was that OK? A little late after you’ve already done it, don’t you think?
I didn’t mind in her case, but I remember one person that I worked with who I thought was a lazy oaf who listed me as a reference. When they called, I was caught off-guard. I simply said, “Right off the top of my head, I don’t remember him. Can I take your number and call you back?”
I did remember the guy; I just didn’t feel comfortable telling them what I remembered about him.
#1 — Ask Them
It is crucial they know you will list them as a reference. The last thing you want is for a potential employer to call them, and they don’t even remember who the hell you are. That could be embarrassing.
#2 — Get Their Correct Title, Address, and Phone
Be sure to get their information correct on the application. If the employer can’t reach them, it does you no good.
If they’re in business, get their title, standard name line (SNL), address, and phone number correct. Once again, if they can’t be reached, they can’t help you.
#3 — Catch Them Up a Little About You
Give them a little background information on what you have been doing since you worked together. Were you in the military or college together? What have you done since then? This could be essential, especially if you finished a degree, pertinent training, or an intern position since then.
Think of certification courses you finished, such as Certified information systems security professional (CISSP), CompTIA A+, IAPMO Mechanical Inspector, HVAC or Solar Heating Installer, and others.
#4 — Jog Their Memory about Some of the Great things You Accomplished
Chances are they won’t remember all of the things you did or how great you were. There’s nothing wrong with reminding them about some of your attributes and contributions.
#5 — Give Them Some Keywords
Salesperson of the month, Dean’s List graduate, strong mentor to subordinates, or charity fundraiser, you know what you did, but they might not remember without a prompt.
#6 — Give Them an Area Which to Focus
Giving each of your references a different area to focus on when they talk about you could help you appear better qualified in different areas which the job position entails. Giving them a copy of the job description you will apply for will help as well.
#7 — Remember that Everyone Is Busy
You could even use that as a lead-in as to why you are giving them a written biography. It may seem awkward if you just provide them with a paper detailing what you consider your best attributes. But if you approach it correctly, they might even appreciate your taking the time to put together a script.
Takeaways
It’s crucial that whoever you list as a reference knows that you will use them as a reference, and you have their permission. It’s also essential to get their SNL correct, that you update them about new accomplishments and some of the things you did together.
Remember, if they agree to let you use them as a reference, they want to help you succeed, so give them some ammo. Give them keywords, focus points, and possibly even a script because we’re all busy. Or at least, you hope to be, and informed references will help you land that job.
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Stephen Dalton is a retired US Army First Sergeant with a degree in journalism from the University of Maryland and a Certified US English Chicago Manual of Style Editor. Currently living in the Philippines, Stephen is a Top Writer in Virtual Reality.
You can see his portfolio here. Email [email protected]
