It’s incredibly common for hiring managers to seek input from a candidate’s list of references. In fact, most companies include reference checks as a standardized part of their hiring process.
Even though many companies may skip the check, it would also be naive to assume they’re asking as a novelty. References can have a strong influence on whether or not you get the job.
While selecting your references, here are some important things to consider before making your selection.
Your References are Co-Authoring Your Story
Your resume, cover letter, interview AND references are puzzle pieces that make up the narrative of your story. The hiring manager is going to question inconsistencies and make note of the recurring themes. Because of this, you need to let your references know ahead of time that they’re getting a call. Better yet, let them know what job you’re applying for and send them a copy of the job description. It’s fantastic to have someone spout positive things about your character, but it’s even better if they can corroborate your story and detail appropriate things for the role you’re applying for.
Include at Least One Supervisor
Be careful with asking former supervisors or managers for a reference while you’re currently in a role under them. Jeopardizing your job isn’t worth it. Hiring managers understand the delicate nature of job-hopping and are never going to demand a reference from their current boss.
Assuming that your resume isn’t made up of one sole position, you can use older jobs. The absence of a supervisor’s reference can incite questions about your job performance, so be wary of relying solely on colleagues.
Get More Than You Need
When you’re in the beginning stages of the hiring process, you’re going to want to hit up your network and gather as many references as possible. Although 90% of jobs are going to ask for three references, a larger pool will allow for a more strategic approach. When you’re juggling more than one company, you can pick and choose which references will be better suited for the position you’re applying for.
Be Diverse
As mentioned previously, you should have a manager or supervisor on your reference list. Do you know what else you should have? A colleague or someone you managed! Your references reflect the range of relationships you’ve cultivated throughout your career. It’s hard to paint a clear picture when your reference list only includes your previous 3 managers. Diversify!
Update References as Much as You Update Your Resume
Your references should not be the same list it was 10 years ago…. or five years ago… or possibly even one year ago! Why? Employers want to know who you are today. It’s a common mistake, but if you think back to everything that has happened over the past year, hopefully, you can see that your career has (somewhat) evolved. Just like your resume, you want to keep updated this list throughout your career.
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