“Finding References That Sing Your Praise” Debra Williams Freelance writer, CareerJournal.com Presenter: Sadella Santos

Why should you use references?  One aspect of your job search where you have complete control  Often is the last step before a job offer is given  Need to choose references carefully and strategically

Dangers in using References for a Job Interview?  No danger  Offering references  Danger  When a hiring manager calls a reference  boss may not wiling to talk about your experience  Coworkers may not remember you/may not have positive comments

Important Steps in Picking the Right References  Assume your references will be checked  Ask permission before listing a reference  Eliminates references that don’t remember you or that don’t want to serve as a reference  Look for references based on job requirements  Past jobs/experiences that are most relevant to what you are applying for

How many references?  List every potential reference  Have 2 or 3 from each job you’ve had  For an active job search – rotate references  Saves some of your references from being contacted by every employer

Contact References  Spend 10-15min talking to each person you ask to be your reference  Job goals  Qualities  Skills  Requirements of the job you’re applying for  Keep references informed – update them regularly

Conclusion  Reference check = good sign  Last step before actual job offer  Make sure references can say something good about you! Not just someone who looks important, professionally