Employers rely on references to confirm your skills and work ethic, so choosing the right individuals to speak on your behalf is an important step in your job search. There are ways to strategically select and prepare references to help you connect with career opportunities.
Whether you’re seeking short-term employment or aiming for a long-term career, well-placed recommendations set you apart in a competitive job market. Start building your network today. Talk with the staffing experts at Quality Placement Authority about how to leverage the power of strong references to enhance your employment prospects.
Choosing Solid References and Getting Permission
Not all references carry the same weight. When thinking about who to contact, remember it is advantageous to have it be someone who knows you well and is familiar with your abilities.
- Supervisors and managers. Past bosses can vouch for your skills, talents, and professionalism.
- Colleagues and team members. Coworkers can highlight your teamwork and communication skills.
- Clients or vendors. They can speak about your service quality and reliability.
- Professors or mentors. If you’re new to the workforce, a teacher can vouch for your dedication and learning ability.
Before listing someone as a reference, be sure to ask for their permission and confirm their preferred contact method. It is also helpful to explain the type of roles you’re applying for and why their recommendation is valuable. Providing context about the skills and accomplishments you’d like them to emphasize ensures they can offer a compelling endorsement.
For example, if you are pursuing short-term work to meet financial needs, contact with individuals who could speak to your adaptability. For long-term roles, focus on references who are aware of your leadership potential and problem-solving skills. Keeping your references updated on your career progress is a way to be sure they remain enthusiastic and prepared to support you, too.
Handling Reference Requests Professionally
Depending on the situation, a hiring manager could request references at different stages of the hiring process. To stay prepared, maintain a document in your job search folder that lists names of people you have reached out to about providing you with a reference and include their job titles and contact information. When it’s time to share that information, double-check that they are comfortable with being contacted, particularly if a lot of time has passed.
As well as helping you secure the work you are hoping to land today, glowing reviews may open more doors than you originally intended. Positive recommendations may result in promotions, networking invitations, and better job prospects later. These growth opportunities may not have been on your radar when you applied for a position, but strong references can reinforce your reputation and credibility.
Where do you file your reference contacts? Gathering solid references as you move through your career is essential for both quick job placements and long-term career growth. If you are ready to get to work, have a conversation with an employment expert. Quality Placement Authority is a full-service staffing and recruiting firm with nationwide service capabilities. Connect with Quality Placement Authority today.
