The references you give a prospective employer matter. Employers do check job references. A bad reference can keep them from hiring you even if they were ready to extend the offer. If a hiring manager is on the fence about you, a great reference can convince him or her to go ahead and offer you the job. Here’s how to make sure that happens.
Who will be the best reference for you?
The opinions of your former bosses, managers or supervisors are always carry the most weight with a potential employer. You worked directly for that person, and so it’s the most direct comparison this potential boss can have.
What happens if your last job was a negative situation?
If you don’t think your last boss can or will give you a good report, then don’t ask them to say anything (although they may end up getting called anyway). Counteract any negativity you may get from that person by asking other high-level people to be your references. This could be bosses in previous jobs (other than your last one), a manager or executive in another department (they can still speak to your work), colleagues, or even high-level clients.
Know what your job references will say about you
You never want to have to guess what a reference will say. This is something you can and should have some control over.
Control it first by being choosy about who you ask to be a job reference. You want someone you know thinks a lot of you and can express themselves well. It also helps if they know something about the job you’re applying for so they can speak to your strengths more effectively.
Then control this situation even more by coaching your references. First, give them a heads up that they’re about to be called. Tell them about the job you’re interviewing for and if you can, remind them of things you’ve done that would be especially relevant or helpful for them to mention.
Remember the Thank You
Always, always, always remember to thank everyone who gave you a good reference. Send a note or give them a call to express your appreciation and let them know how it turned out. Personally, if I got the job, I’d probably send my job reference a small gift—flowers, a coffee gift card, or something similar. This isn’t necessary, but it’s nice to do.
Manage your references
Moving forward, keep your job references primed and ready to go by keeping in touch. This is easy to do with simple emails. Two to three times a year, write them to say hello. Let them know what you’re up to in your career. Pass on news or articles they might be interested in. Ask how they are and if there’s anything you can help them with. Maintaining regular contact eliminates the awkwardness when it’s time to ask for a reference.