3 Tips to Get the Most Out of Your References

3 Tips to Get the Most Out of Your References

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As most job seekers know, one of the final steps in the hiring process usually entails a reference check.

During this phase of the process, an individual from the hiring organization will contact the professional references provided by the job seeker. Generally, this is viewed as a formality.

However, these conversations can provide critical insight regarding your candidacy.

In some cases, they can be the deciding factor. An unreturned call or a lackluster review of your skills and experience can be a strong enough deterrent to jeopardize your offer.

So, your best bet is to take this part of the process seriously. Here are three tips to get the most out of your references.

Choose Your Biggest Supporters

It should go without saying that you should choose the people who are willing and able to shine the brightest light on you. Many organizations simply ask for references and don’t place any requirements on the request. However, others may specify that they’d like to speak with past managers or supervisors, not peers.

Always follow the guidance provided, but within that group, select the people who are the most vocally enthusiastic about who you are and what you do, and the ones who can speak the most directly to your relevant experience for the role.

Regardless of the requirements set forth by the organization, remember that opinions shared by past managers who have direct experience overseeing your work will usually carry the most weight. This is yet another reason why developing strong relationships with your bosses and leaving on good terms are always useful strategies for long-term success.


Also read: Be the Humble Bragger


Prepare Them Ahead of Time

When you launch into your job search, contact each of your references and let them know you’d like to use them if and when necessary. Request their permission to share contact information and let them know generally what kind of position you’re seeking.

This is just an early warning. Job searching can take some time so, once you get closer to this stage in the hiring process, you should always get back in touch with them.

Give Them a Quick Heads Up

Finally, once references are requested and it appears likely they will be contacted, reach back out to each person individually. Let him or her know to expect a call or email from the hiring organization and that you’d appreciate their prompt response. Remember that people are busy and this can be an easy task for them to ignore. However, that can be dangerous for you.

At the same time, provide some specific instruction regarding what you’d like them to emphasize in the discussion. The right reference can help minimize any lingering doubts and confirm you’re the right match for the role. Explain the position and the key skills that are most important for success. It might also be useful to jog their memory regarding your experience in these areas so it’s top of mind.

If you’re worried that someone on your reference list isn’t representing you in the most positive light, consider asking a friend to call, posing as a representative from a hiring organization. This can give you an inside peek into how the conversation goes. You may choose to remove that person from your list in the future.

However, it’s worthwhile noting that prospective employers may call past employers, whether or not you provide a specific reference. There are legal parameters regarding the information they can share, but it’s not as stringent as many are led to believe. If you’re concerned, seek legal counsel.


Also read: Writing a Follow Up to an Interview: How and When to Send it


Many organizations consider reference checks a critical part of the hiring process. Don’t discount their importance. A few small steps on your end can mean the difference between an offer and a rejection.

Chrissy Scivicque
About the Author
Chrissy Scivicque

Chrissy Scivicque is a career coach, corporate trainer and public speaker who believes work can be a nourishing part of the life experience. Her website, Eat Your Career, is devoted to this mission. Chrissy is currently a contributing career expert for U.S. News & World Report and the author of the book, The Proactive Professional: How to Stop Playing Catch Up and Start Getting Ahead at Work (and in Life!), available on Amazon.

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