Tips On Job References and Reference Checks

Reference checks serve several purposes during a selection process.

• They are to validate your statements about your experience.
• They are to find out how you work with others and they are to find out information that was not gleaned in the interview.

The overall aim is to determine if you are going to be an asset to your potential employer. Generally, everyone that reference checks you will assume you have chosen referees that show you in the best light. If you are unable to provide referees, you are sending a very loud negative signal.

Who to choose?

Usually three referees will be requested. Many employers ask for someone you have reported to, someone you have worked alongside and a customer. Others will insist only on people you have reported to. Personal references are usually not valued.

The more recent that you have worked with the referee, the better. Referees that you last worked with more than 5 years ago start to become less important than the most recent ones.If you are a recent graduate, then you can choose your final year project lecturer, your industry project employer and your most recent employer (even if that is from a casual retail job).

Are you afraid of using your current employer? Try an ex-employee that has left.

When are they used?

Formal reference checks are usually performed after your first interview. This allows the employer to validate what you stated in the interview. It also saves your referees from being called on for every job that you apply for - something that they will appreciate.

It is good manners to alert your referee that they are about to receive a reference check call soon. This can also speed up your recruitment process as you will know who is available and who is not.

To put into the resume or not?

It is advisable to refrain from putting your references in your resume. It can mean that your referees are contacted before you are invited to an interview. This usually occurs when the employer does not have a defined efficient recruitment process and is going by instinct.

The employer is searching for more information on you - but may catch the referee of guard.

Job Reference Tips

• Always have your job reference’s permission before giving their contact details to a prospective employer. Your referee should never be caught off guard by an unexpected phone call, as this can work against you.
• Make sure your referees know about the role you have applied for so they can focus on your relevant skills and strengths.
• It’s good practice to contact your referees after the interview and let them know how it went. This way they can emphasise your key strengths or skills relevant to the job.
• Every time you change employers, make an effort to ask for a reference from your manager or co-worker. This enables you to create a file of recommendations from people who you may not be in contact with in the future.
• Keep your job references up to date and let them know where your job searches stands. This keeps them on guard and be better prepared for a potential call. When you become employed, send a thank you note to anyone who provided you with a reference
• Keep your business network up to date, LinkedIn is a great way to do this. Maintain continual contact with your references and if you feel it's appropriate ask them to write you a reference that you can post to your LinkedIn profile too.