The Reference Check…It’s Not Time to Celebrate Yet
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Two years ago, if a client told me that the company they were interviewing with was getting ready to check references, I would have thought, “Great! It sounds like an offer is not far behind.” But now, with unemployment at almost 10%, the job search landscape is far different and more competitive than ever. As a result, many companies are checking the references of multiple candidates in order to help make their final decision. So, getting it right with your references is extremely important. Here are a few tips:
- Be Proactive: Don’t assume the reference and reference checker will connect. Find out who will be calling your reference and let your reference know. I would suggest taking the steps to help schedule it. Not only will this help make certain it happens, but your reference will be in a better state of mind and more prepared for the call. You want them focused on selling you, not multitasking by driving, checking emails, etc..
- Prepare Your Reference: Schedule a call with your reference to review your background and the position you are interviewing for. Send them a copy of your resume. You want them understanding why this is a great job for you. They need to both think and speak in terms of why your past accomplishments are an indicator of what you are going to do for your future employer. It is all about being specific, quantifying and qualifying why you are the best hire – period.
- You are Only Good at What You Check: Follow up with your reference afterwards to find to how the call went. Were there any stumbling points? Any red flags they think you might need to address or be aware of? This way you know if there are any points you need to go back and re-address or affirm with your future employer.
There reference check is so much more than verifying employment. By taking these steps, you will not only properly prepare your reference, but you might discover you need to replace one of the people on your list. Remember, knowing they are checking references doesn’t mean you have the job, but it does mean you are a finalist. This is the last leg of your journey, so it’s time to pull out all the stops. Make sure your references tip the scales in your favor!
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“Hidden” Job Market expert Kevin Kermes has shown thousands how to uncover the unadvertised job market and pull jobs to them. If you’re looking for simple, quick and easy ways to bring the job market to you and cut your search time down significantly, get your FREE advice now at www.careerattraction.com
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Good ideas for the job seeker to follow during this lean period. Thanks.
Another note for “be proactive”- find out what your references are going to say BEFORE they say it! Bad references are a killer in the current job market. If you don’t know, try working with one of the reference checking companie like allisontaylor.com or reference-check.com, they can find out what your references are saying about you.
Great point. If in prepping your references you don’t get a good feeling, they aren’t on the same page or don’t seem as vested in the process as you – find another. There is way too much at risk to roll the dice here!
Building Your Success,
Kevin
Checking the references of your new Company, Boss incl. working atmosphere incl. a highly detailed observation of “how you´re treated” during the interview will enlight a lot of those who might should be hiring you. Specificly think, if this is a “bad treatment” for YOURSELF (!!! and for no one else), to give them a quit. Be faster than they are. Describe it: I just observed ….be short tough but precise. The market will learn to treat people right specificly Top Notch Performers. It´s all just a question of your personal attitude. Have a great day.