Employment References

References can make the difference between an offer and not getting an offer. Never underestimate the power of a reference. The main purpose is for a potential employer to gain a insider's view of how others—managers, peers and subordinates—evaluate your skills, and perceived strengths and weaknesses. Most importantly, the potential employer has an opportunity to explore issues that may be of concern to them. That said, you should have a clear idea of not only which of your strengths are most needed by the potential employer but also what potential concerns they may have of you and how best to allay those concerns.

For a candidate, the reference checking can be the most effective selling device he or she has. For an employer, the reference checking can be the best source it has to verify that the candidate will indeed be a good match, not only for the position, but also for the team and company as well. Take the time to prepare a well organized, carefully thought out reference list (feel free to use our Reference Worksheet as a template). Think about whom would be best able to answer in detail the questions that a potential employer might have. Don't forget to contact the references ahead of time and let them know to expect a call—verify that they can be reached and won't be on vacation or traveling when you need them to respond.

View Reference Worksheet