Think References Aren’t that Important? Think again.

Often times people wait until they have an offer on the table to figure out who they are using a reference. Many job offers hinge on the candidate’s references coming back positive, so it surprises me when people have not taken the time to thoughtfully choose their references. What should you look for in a reference? Here are some helpful tips:

1. Can I have my co-worker be my reference? No. You will need at least one supervisor or upper management reference. The company will want to ask about your work ethic, project management and how you interacted with your colleagues. Make sure you choose someone with whom you have a good rapport that actually worked closely with you. If you use someone too removed from your day-to-day work, they may give a reference that is too general. If the person checking your reference wants specific examples, make sure you provide them with a supervisor who can do so.
2.  Already a manager? You may want to think about getting a previous direct report to vouch for you. It however, absolutely should NOT be a current direct report. This could be a conflict of interest for the employee and may put them in an uncomfortable position. However, having someone who worked for you as your reference may give the hiring manager a good idea of your management style.
3. Get a reliable reference. Make sure your reference knows they are a reference, and explain to them your goals for your career so they can speak to that during the reference check. It is also important to make sure they are up for being called on to give a reference. Some people are not comfortable doing this and this should not be taken personally — find someone who is! Once you solidify that this person is willing to take time to speak on your behalf, ask them how they would like to be contacted by companies. Would they like to be emailed to set up a time? Or directly called on their work phone, cell phone etc?
4. Recent graduate? Recent graduates always ask if they need a reference. Invariably, the answer is yes! Ask a college professor as well as a supervisor at any internship you may have had. At this level hiring managers are mostly interested in your work ethic and reliability, so be sure to ask someone who can attest to this.
5. Who else should I list as a reference? This varies depending on your role, but if you are in sales, or in any client-facing position, considers asking a client for a reference. Clients hold a lot of sway with potential employers because they interacted with you on a professional level when you were selling them something. They will be able to speak about your competencies as a sales or consulting professional.
6. Be ready. Determine who your references are before you are looking for a job. You do not want to be scrambling at the last minute to get in touch with former colleagues when a job offer hangs in the balance. Do not just list off a couple people who managed you in the past, put a time and energy into finding someone who can represent the work you have done.

Do not underestimate the power of the reference. It can make or break your job offer. Make sure you choose people who can speak thoughtfully and with detail about your experience. You do not want someone who will tell the reference-checker what they want to hear (people will see right through that), but rather, you want someone who can speak candidly and with conviction.  So if you have not thought about who you would call upon to represent you in a reference check, do so now before you are looking for your next role!