How to Prepare & Choose References so you get the job! (Steps and Top Tips)
During your job search, you submitted your resume, nailed the interview, and one of the final steps to getting the offer is having the right references to confirm all the great things you’ve shown during the hiring process. This is important so they can help you land the job and get the offer!
Nearly all companies will ask for a list of 3 or more references before they send the official offer. In 4 easy steps let’s review how to select your references, prepare them, and follow up to secure your next job!
Tip: Don’t include references on your resume. When the company is ready, they’ll ask you to provide a list of (typically 3 references) to contact. Sometimes, you might have to list these names earlier in the hiring process if there is an online application to submit.
How to Prepare & Choose References so you get the job
1. Think About Who Your References Will Be
Thinking through who your references will be who can sell you’re the right candidate.
You want references who can speak on the job skills the potential employer is seeking and their experience working with you. It’s nice to have a variety of references, but primarily references who can speak to your recent experience.
Some professional references can include:
· Former supervisor or manager (ideally within the last 2 years, sometimes this is required)
· Former co-worker or colleagues
· Clients
· College professors, coaches, volunteers, or other advisors (this is helpful if you are a recent graduate with little professional contacts)
2. Ask Your Potential References Before Listing Them
Call or email your contacts to confirm they are willing to speak on your behalf and act as a reference for you.
3. Equip Your References to Speak Highly of You
Once you know the company is reaching out to your references, give them a heads up and let them know what you want them to speak on.
It’s helpful to let them know:
· The position you’re interviewing for (include what responsibilities you’ll have and remind them of your experience in this area).
· What skills or strengths you want them to highlight
· (Optional)- send them your recent resume (so your previous experience is right in front of them)
Questions Reference checks might ask:
· Tell me about your relationship with the candidate.
· What skills does this candidate have that will help them succeed in this position?
· What is one of this candidate’s accomplishments that stands out from when you worked with them?
· What are some areas for growth for this candidate?
· How would you describe this candidate’s working style?
· Would you recommend this candidate for the role?
· Does this candidate work better with a team or alone?
· How does this candidate work with other co-workers?
References Preparation Email (Optional)
If you want to follow up with your references with an email. Here’s a sample of what it could look like.
SUBJECT: Reference Check for Me
Hi (Insert name),
I hope you’re doing well! Thanks again for being a reference for me. As discussed, the position is with (insert company name) as a (insert position title).
I’m a great fit for this role because of my experience in (insert some significant highlights or a summary of why you’re a perfect fit).
I have attached my recent resume to assist you in speaking on my background.
If you need anything, please let me know. Also, please keep me posted once they call you.
Thanks again, talk soon.
Best,
(Insert name)
4. Follow up with Your References
Lastly, follow up with your references to see how the conversation went and keep them posted once you land the job!
You never know when you might need to have them speak on your behalf again, so share your appreciation with your references.
Final Thoughts
Reference checks are usually the final step before companies make an offer. So, once your references let you know they’ve been contacted, you’re close to landing the job! So, get ready to review their offer and negotiate!