Comments on: Prepare your references for job search success

By: Gayle Howard

Gayle Howard — Tue, 18 May 2010 08:22:50 +0000

Great points Miriam. I have had many clients share their tales of woe over the last 20 years and the comment element in all of these situations was that they didn’t quiz or coach their references. They just relied on people to “say something nice” about them. In some cases, the telephone numbers were wrong, or people had moved on and the candidate was seen as wasting people’s times. Other times, references completely ran off at the mouth telling tales of fun and hijinks to make a new friend. So eager are they to please that they provide some of the most inappropriate examples of the candidate’s “talents”. Getting in touch with references is crucial before the job search even begins. If the jobseeker can focus the reference by giving some examples “Remember when we worked together on that project? Remember how successful that was? Perhaps you remember when I sorted out that problem….” By suggesting and providing direction to the reference, he or she is more likely to remember your discussion and keep within the parameters than sabotage the job seeking candidacy. Your article touches on all of that. Excellent advice as always!

By: career sherpa

career sherpa — Fri, 14 May 2010 21:51:22 +0000

Miriam: I am so glad you covered references! You've shed wonderful insight on how important it is for job seekers to "manage" their references. Job seekers have more control than they know. I think you've empowered some! .-= career sherpa´s last blog ..The Interview: A Well Rehersed Performance or Hacked Improv? =-.

By: Heather Mundell

Heather Mundell — Fri, 14 May 2010 16:46:57 +0000

Miriam, so many people completely forget to prep their references! They may have old phone numbers for them and haven't talked with them in a while. It's so easy to take the extra step of getting in touch and preparing them to best support the job seeker. This is great advice. And a great topic for the month! .-= Heather Mundell´s last blog ..How to Stand Out in a Job Interview =-.