Career Marketplace Blog

Who should you choose as a reference? Joanna Boydak from LiveCareer has a few Secrets to Passing the Reference Check.

Read an excerpt from Boydak’s article below. Read Full Article

Would you be excited to eat at a restaurant that has a mediocre review? An unenthusiastic reference may hurt more than help, so choose your references carefully and make sure they are prepared. With just a little extra planning, you can guarantee your references help you win the job.

Follow these steps to prepare for a reference check:

1. Make your list- Ideally, you will want to use your most recent supervisor as a reference. Former clients, employees you have supervised and co-workers are acceptable as well. If you are an entry-level candidate with little experience, list a mentor such as a professor or family friend. All of these types of references can provide valid insight into your character and abilities as a future employee.

2. Get their permission- Never submit your references before getting their permission first. Describe the type of job that you are looking for and request that they be a reference. If you sense hesitation, consider asking someone else. Having a great reference requires the individual to be prepared to vouch for you with enthusiasm.

Read On

In her article for U.S. News and World Report, Alison Green reports 8 Things You Should Know About Job References.

Green explains details about reference checks including:

• Employers don’t always stick to the references on the list you gave them.
• References are often highly subjective and opinionated.
• You can find out what kind of reference someone is giving you.

Read on to read to complete list and how your references can influence a potential job offer.