By: Debra Williams Presenter: Kanjimana Nawezi

Overview  References hurt job seekers  Steps to Follow when Offering references : Assume your references will be checked Ask permission before listing a reference. Make sure your references are comfortable speaking on your behalf Verify your information

Overview Continued Coach your references Keep your references informed Choose references based on job requirements List every potential reference, including two or three from each job you've held Choose your references based on what they can say about you, not name recognition Conclusion

References hurt job seekers  Four little words that have cost job seekers many opportunities: “References available upon request” Your last boss may sound hesitant when asked to talk about your experience A former co-worker may not even remember who you are

Steps to Follow when Offering references: Assume your references will be checked  It's a misconception that employers aren't going to call references  Most companies check references during the hiring process

Ask permission before listing a reference  Asking permission eliminates many of the problems references cause job seekers  You'll know which references are able and willing to vouch for you

Make sure your references are comfortable speaking on your behalf  Employers know if someone isn't pleased to be giving the reference by how they say, not by what they say  Eliminate hesitant reference from your list

Verify your information  Make sure your advocates' contact information are correct: Phone numbers Job titles Company names Addresses  Present it in a professional manner Your list should be typed on letterhead-quality paper that matches your resume

Coach your references  Spend 10 to 15 minutes talking to each person you ask to serve as a reference  Discuss your job goals  Outline the qualities and skills you're emphasizing in your job search  Give each a copy of your resume

Keep your references informed  Update them regularly on how your search is progressing  Call and let them know when you've had a great interview with a company  Refresh their memories of your qualifications

Choose references based on job requirements  Someone who can vouch for your technical savvy may not to be the best person to speak about your management skills

List every potential reference, including two or three from each job you've held  Under each name, jot down the job skills and work characteristics each one knows best  Rotate your references: save two or three people from being contacted by every employer who checks your references.

Choose your references based on what they can say about you, not name recognition  List only references who are well familiar with your work and feel comfortable talking about you  Your former supervisors should be the right person

Conclusion  Have complete control over your references  Organize your list of references  Make sure your supporters know about you